Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting—a heavenly blend of tangy, silky cream cheese and rich buttery goodness, whipped until perfectly smooth and decadently spreadable. This classic frosting is the ideal crown for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and even cinnamon rolls, delivering just the right balance of sweetness and depth. Once you’ve tried this version, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for anything less. It’s simple, quick, and so tempting that you might just want to eat it straight from the bowl!

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of kitchen staples to make this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting, but don’t underestimate the magic they create. Each ingredient plays a starring role in achieving luxurious texture, balanced sweetness, and that signature tang that sets this frosting apart from the rest.

Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Soft, unsalted butter lends creaminess and structure, helping the frosting whip up light and fluffy every time.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The soul of this frosting, cream cheese brings a luscious tang and velvety body to each bite.
Powdered Sugar (4 cups): This is key for sweetness and that classic, cloud-like texture—sift if lumpy for the silkiest finish.
Vanilla Extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Pure vanilla rounds out the flavors with warm, aromatic depth that accentuates both cream cheese and butter.
Pinch of Salt: Just a little brings out the nuanced flavors, giving the frosting a rounded, crave-worthy finish.

How to Make Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Beat Butter and Cream Cheese

Start by placing your softened butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is irresistibly smooth and fluffy, usually about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting turns out lump-free and airy, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Salt

Pour in the vanilla extract and add just a pinch of salt to the bowl, then mix again on low until everything is fully blended. Vanilla is your secret weapon here—it amplifies the sweet and tangy notes, while salt brings perfect flavor balance to the Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting.

Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar Gradually

Now the fun part! Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary to make sure every bit of sugar is incorporated. Continue mixing until the frosting becomes pale, thick, and gorgeously fluffy—just the way you want your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Use

If you prefer a thicker frosting (fantastic for piping or decorating), simply add a little more powdered sugar in small increments. If it’s too stiff, let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes or add a splash of milk. Once it’s just right, use immediately to top your cakes or cupcakes, or refrigerate for later—just remember to bring it to room temperature before using so it’s easy to spread!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

Garnishes

Sprinkle your frosted treats with colorful sprinkles, finely chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or even a pinch of citrus zest for an eye-catching finish. These simple additions contrast beautifully with the creamy richness of Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting and can complement the flavors of your baked goods perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting–adorned cakes or cupcakes with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or a handful of sweet berries, for a lovely pop of color and bright freshness. If you’re serving a cake at a brunch or celebration, a cup of robust coffee or lightly sweetened tea makes for a delightful companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Pipe the Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting into whimsical swirls atop cupcakes, sandwich it between cookies for the ultimate treat, or use an offset spatula to spread thick, dramatic swoops over layer cakes. For a playful twist, tint the frosting with a drop or two of food coloring or swirl in some berry puree for a fruity, pastel-hued variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting stays fresh and delicious in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Before using, let it soften at room temperature and give it a quick stir or whip to restore its cloud-like fluffiness.

Freezing

For longer storage, pop your frosting in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to use it again, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw, then allow it to come to room temperature and beat until creamy again—no one will ever guess it was frozen!

Reheating

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is best enjoyed at room temperature. If it’s too cold to spread, simply set it on the counter for 20–30 minutes or use short, gentle bursts in the microwave, stirring between each until just soft enough to work with.

FAQs

Can I make Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make it a day or two in advance and store tightly covered in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before using, giving it a quick whip for the fluffiest texture.

Why is my frosting lumpy?

Lumpy Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting usually happens if the butter or cream cheese is too cold. For the smoothest results, let both come to room temperature before beating—this ensures a silky, lump-free finish every time.

How can I make the frosting thicker for piping?

If you need a sturdier consistency for decorations or piping, add extra powdered sugar a little at a time (about 1/4 cup per addition), mixing well between each until you reach the ideal thickness.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can experiment with high-quality vegan butter and plant-based cream cheese, although the flavor and texture will be a bit different. Stick with brands that are designed for baking for the closest result to classic Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting.

Can I use this frosting for cookies as well as cakes?

Absolutely! Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is just as delicious spread between soft cookies, piped on sandwich cookies, or slathered over sugar cookies as it is on cakes and cupcakes.

Final Thoughts

Classic, adaptable, and always the crowd favorite, Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is the finishing touch your homemade treats deserve. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to add a touch of everyday magic, give this recipe a try—you’re just ten minutes away from a truly unforgettable frosting!

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Frosts 12–18 cupcakes or 1 two-layer cake 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting. Perfect for topping off your favorite cupcakes, cakes, or sweet treats!

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Flavorings: Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until incorporated.
Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
Finalize: Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to use, bringing back to room temperature before spreading.

Notes

This frosting pairs perfectly with cupcakes, layer cakes, cinnamon rolls, or cookies.
For a stiffer consistency, add more powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Frosting
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American