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The Best Classic Cream Cheese Frosting: Smooth, Tangy, and Pipeable

A close-up of a small white bowl topped with a generous swirl of smooth, fluffy cream cheese frosting.
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You need this easy cream cheese frosting recipe! It creates a smooth, fluffy texture that is perfectly tangy and holds its shape well for decorating cakes, cupcakes, or topping warm cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (8 ounce) package full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Set your room temperature ingredients out. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are very soft to prevent lumps.
  2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix briefly to combine.
  4. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
  5. Once all the sugar is added, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. This whipping step helps achieve a smooth texture.
  6. Taste the frosting. If you want it sweeter, add more powdered sugar, half a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If you want a tangier flavor, add a tiny pinch more salt.
  7. If the frosting seems too soft for piping, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before using.

Notes

  • For the smoothest frosting, always use full-fat cream cheese and ensure both the cream cheese and butter are at true room temperature.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar is the key step to achieving a no lump frosting result.
  • If you are making this for cinnamon rolls, start with 3 cups of powdered sugar for a slightly runnier glaze consistency.
  • This frosting holds its shape well for piping, making it a great smooth buttercream alternative for decorating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastytribune.com/cream-cheese-frosting-best-smooth-recipe/