If you’ve been searching for the ultimate topping with a tangy twist and the creamiest texture, look no further than Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting. This decadent yet balanced frosting truly has it all—a dreamy, fluffy body, a perfect harmony of rich butter and bright cream cheese, and just enough sweetness to make any cake or cupcake unforgettable. Whether you’re icing a classic red velvet, layering a carrot cake, or simply elevating a batch of cookies, this easy recipe is about to become your new secret weapon for crowd-pleasing bakes.

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is in its simplicity: just five core ingredients come together to create something magical. Each one plays a starring role—bringing flavor, texture, or structure to make this frosting absolutely irresistible.

Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The heart of this frosting! Use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for the best flavor and thickness.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create a smooth, fluffy texture. Make sure it’s truly room temperature for easy blending.
Powdered Sugar (4 cups): Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting, and can be adjusted for thickness and taste.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors for a bakery-style finish.
Pinch of Salt: Don’t skip this! A little salt sharpens all the sweet and tangy notes, making the frosting more complex.

How to Make Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

Start with a large mixing bowl and add both the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step is essential for a lump-free, silky result—don’t rush it! Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.

Step 2: Gradually Add Powdered Sugar

With the mixer on low, slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. After each addition, mix until the sugar is fully incorporated. This helps prevent lumps and keeps the frosting from flying out of the bowl. Once all the sugar is in, increase the speed to medium and whip the frosting until it looks fluffy and light.

Step 3: Blend in Vanilla and Salt

Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then continue beating just until everything is evenly combined. The vanilla brings in warm notes of sweetness, while the salt makes all the flavors pop. Your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting should now be smooth, glossy, and ready to use.

Step 4: Adjust the Consistency (Optional)

If you’d like your frosting a bit thicker for piping or decorative work, add extra powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time. Prefer it less sweet? Swap in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch for some of the sugar. For best results, chill briefly before piping—this helps it hold shape on cupcakes or cakes.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the magic that a finishing touch can add! Sprinkle toasted nuts, a pinch of cinnamon, or bright citrus zest over your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting for instant gourmet vibes. Even a dusting of cocoa or a few rainbow sprinkles can add personality and color to your beautiful bakes.

Side Dishes

While this frosting shines on top of cakes and cupcakes, you can also pair it with fresh berries, bake it into stuffed cookies, or spread it on pumpkin bread for a delightful treat. The tanginess beautifully offsets sweeter desserts or even breakfast pastries that could use a creamy upgrade.

Creative Ways to Present

Try swirling Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting high on cupcakes, or use a piping bag with a star tip for bakery-worthy designs. For a rustic look, pile it on thick and swoop with the back of a spoon. Layer between cookies for sandwich treats, or lightly toast it under the broiler for a brûléed finish—your options are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any extra Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Always let it come to room temperature before spreading so it returns to its dreamy, spreadable state. Give it a quick whip with your mixer if you want to revive its airy texture.

Freezing

Want to get ahead? This frosting freezes like a charm. Scoop it into a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out the extra air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge—then bring it to room temperature and stir well before using so it’s perfectly creamy again.

Reheating

After time in the fridge or freezer, your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting may firm up. To bring it back to life, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour, then re-whip until smooth. Just avoid microwaving, which can melt the delicate fats and ruin the texture.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

While you technically can use low-fat cream cheese, the texture and richness won’t be quite the same. Full-fat cream cheese produces the smoothest and creamiest results, making the frosting stand tall and taste truly indulgent.

Why is my Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting runny?

If your frosting feels too loose, it’s often because the butter or cream cheese was too soft, or because of warm kitchen conditions. Simply chill it for 10-15 minutes, then re-beat to help it thicken up. You can also add more powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.

Can I color or flavor this frosting?

Absolutely! Gel food coloring works best for adding vibrant color without thinning the frosting. Try citrus zest, almond, or maple extract, or even a swirl of cocoa powder to give your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting new flavor dimensions.

Is Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting good for piping?

Yes! For the best piping results, chill the frosting slightly to help it hold its shape, and make sure it’s on the thicker side by adding a touch more powdered sugar if needed. Use your favorite piping tips and have fun decorating—this frosting is flexible and fuss-free.

Can I use this frosting for layer cakes?

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is fantastic for layer cakes because it’s sturdy, smooth, and easy to spread. If your cake will be sitting out for more than a couple of hours in a warm place, consider refrigerating it to help the frosting stay firm and picture-perfect.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever dreamed of a frosting that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is your new go-to recipe. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how much it elevates every dessert—feel free to get creative and let your baking imagination run wild!

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 3 cups (enough to frost 24 cupcakes or a 2-layer cake) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting that takes your cakes, cupcakes, and cookies to the next level with its rich flavor and smooth texture.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Frosting:

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

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar gradually, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
Increase speed to medium and beat until fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Notes

For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
To make it less sweet, reduce powdered sugar slightly and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
This frosting is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies and can be piped easily if chilled slightly.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and bring to room temperature before using.

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