This is the ultimate American-Style Buttercream Frosting recipe, perfected after numerous trials. It strikes the right balance between sweetness and buttery richness, making it ideal for a wide variety of cakes and cupcakes. The key to its success lies in its smooth, creamy texture and just-right sweetness, achieved by carefully blending butter with sifted powdered sugar and flavored with vanilla. The addition of hot milk ensures the sugar dissolves completely, creating a silky-smooth frosting. Optional meringue powder can be added for enhanced stability, making it perfect for detailed decorating work.
Perfect Occasion: This buttercream is versatile and perfect for decorating birthday cakes, wedding cakes, cupcakes for special occasions, or any time you need a reliable, delicious frosting. It’s also great for those who enjoy cake decorating as a hobby and want a dependable, easy-to-work-with frosting.
Ingredients:
- 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon (4.25g) vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup (165g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup (62.5ml) whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon (10g) meringue powder
Instructions:
- In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the butter on medium-high speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl.
- Combine the vanilla, salt, and milk in a separate container. Heat this mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until it’s hot.
- Dissolve the icing sugar in the hot milk mixture. Strain it to avoid any lumps and allow it to cool completely.
- Once cooled, gradually add the icing sugar mixture to the creamed butter while the mixer is running at medium speed.
- Continue to beat the mixture for about 10 minutes on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Finally, reduce the mixer speed to the lowest setting for 1-2 minutes to remove any large air bubbles.
This recipe creates a perfect American-Style Buttercream Frosting, ready to be spread or piped onto your favorite cakes and cupcakes. Enjoy your baking and decorating!
