Cream Cheese Frosting: How Bakers Get It Smooth

Cream Cheese Frosting Step-by-Step Instructions

I started making this cream cheese frosting back when I wanted something less sweet than regular buttercream. The mix of tangy cream cheese and smooth butter makes it rich but balanced, and it spreads beautifully on cakes or cupcakes. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to the store-bought kind again.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

0 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 12 cupcakes (or enough to frost one 9-inch cake)

Course: Dessert, Frosting

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 225 g cream cheese softened
• 115 g unsalted butter softened
• 2 cups 250g powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A small pinch of salt

Method

 

1. Let the cream cheese and butter rest at room temperature until soft enough to blend easily.
2. Beat both together in a large bowl using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and evenly combined.
3. Add in the powdered sugar slowly, mixing on low so it doesn’t puff out.
4. After all the sugar is in, switch to medium speed and beat until the frosting looks fluffy and light.
5. Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle in the salt, then beat for a few more seconds until everything blends evenly and the frosting looks smooth.
6. Check the texture. Add a spoonful of powdered sugar for a firmer frosting or mix in a teaspoon of milk for a lighter one.
7. Use it right away to frost cupcakes, cakes, or cookies, or chill for about 20 minutes for a thicker spread.

Video

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before using again so it spreads smoothly.
• Works great as a cake filling, cupcake topping, or on cinnamon rolls.

Tips & Tricks

• Use block-style cream cheese, not the whipped or spreadable types, for the best consistency.
• Don’t overbeat once the sugar is in, as it can make the frosting too runny.
• Add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a mild sour touch that balances the cream cheese flavour.
• For a stiffer frosting (great for piping), chill it for 20–30 minutes before using.
• Always start with room temperature butter and cream cheese for smooth blending.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on carrot cake, red velvet cupcakes, or banana bread.
• Use as a filling for sandwich cookies or cinnamon rolls.
• For something extra, top frosted cupcakes with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or toasted coconut.

Seasonal Variations

• Winter: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Spring/Summer: Mix in finely grated lemon or orange zest for a twist.
• Fall: A dash of maple syrup pairs beautifully with pumpkin treats.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 14g
• Carbs: 20g
• Sugar: 19g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 90mg

Learn more about cream cheese nutrition and its uses:
Is Cream Cheese Healthy? Nutrition, Benefits & Downsides — Healthline

Read how butter affects frosting texture:
King Arthur – Quick Buttercream Frosting Recipe