Cream Cheese Frosting
on Sep 20, 2023, Updated Jun 28, 2024
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Cream Cheese Frosting is a beloved and versatile topping that has found its way into the hearts and desserts of people worldwide. Its velvety texture, subtle tanginess, and sweet richness make it a perfect complement to a variety of baked goods.
My recipe for cream cheese frosting is a delectable confection made by combining cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and a few other ingredients. This creamy, sweet topping is adored for its luxurious texture and delightful flavor profile. It strikes a delightful balance between sweet and tangy, making it a perfect match for a wide range of baked goods.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese frosting is most commonly associated with carrot cake and red velvet cake. Its smooth and rich texture pairs beautifully with the moist and flavorful crumb of these cakes. Spread it generously between cake layers and on top for a heavenly dessert. This frosting is also great when you’re making classic cupcakes or experimenting with unique flavors, cream cheese frosting can be piped on top to add a touch of elegance and flavor. Its creamy consistency makes it ideal for decorating cupcakes with swirls, rosettes, or any other creative designs.
When making this frosting, ensure that the cream cheese and butter are thoroughly and evenly mixed. Use an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer) to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Beat them together for a few minutes until no lumps remain.
The right consistency is key for cream cheese frosting. Use heavy cream (or whipping cream) to adjust the frosting’s consistency. Gradually add it in small amounts, as needed, to achieve the desired texture. The cream not only adds moisture but also contributes to the creaminess of the frosting.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese
- Butter
- Powdered sugar
- Salt
- Heavy cream
Keep scrolling to find a full, printable recipe with a detailed ingredient list.
Recipe Instructions
- Make sure your ingredients, especially the cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature for easy mixing.
- In an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, blend the cream cheese and butter on medium speed until it’s smooth and lump-free.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar in small portions to avoid a mess and ensure a smooth mix. Keep beating until it’s all combined and creamy.
- Add a pinch of salt and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Mix. If it’s too thick, add more cream, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s the consistency you want. Keep mixing until it’s smooth and easy to spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cream cheese frosting is a sweet and creamy topping made by mixing cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and sometimes additional flavorings. It’s commonly used to frost cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
Store cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically be kept for up to one week. Before using it, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip it for a smoother consistency.
If your frosting is too runny, you can thicken it by adding more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, refrigerate it for a short while to firm it up.
Yes, cream cheese frosting can be used for piping and decorating cakes and cupcakes. Be sure it’s at the right consistency for your specific decoration needs. It’s slightly softer than buttercream, so you may want to chill it slightly for intricate designs.
More Recipes
- Coconut Pecan Frosting
- Birthday Cupcakes
- Easy Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
- The Best Carrot Cake Recipe
- Marble Cake
If you’ve tried this Cream Cheese Frosting recipe or any other recipe on Bless This Mess, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience making it. And if you snapped some pictures of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, 2 sticks, at room temperature
- 1 package, 2 lb powdered sugar, approximately 8 cups
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Before you start, ensure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature. This facilitates smoother mixing.
- In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese and butter. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and devoid of any lumps.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the creamed mixture, ensuring you add it in small increments. This prevents the sugar from creating a cloud in your kitchen and also ensures a smoother blend. Beat the mixture until it's well-integrated and has a velvety texture.
- Add in the salt, followed by the heavy cream. Start with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and beat the frosting. If the consistency is too thick, you can gradually add more cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Notes
- This frosting is softer in nature, which makes it ideal for spreading on cakes. However, its soft texture means it may not hold up well for intricate piping details without being chilled first.
- Once you’ve frosted your cake, it’s advisable to chill the cake for at least an hour or until the frosting sets. This will provide added stability, especially if you’re layering cakes.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract or the zest of 1 lemon into the frosting. Adjust according to your taste preference.
- If you have leftover frosting or if you’ve prepared it in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using chilled frosting, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its creamy consistency.
- This cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with red velvet, carrot, chocolate, and spice cakes. Its tangy yet sweet profile complements the flavors of these cakes beautifully.
Nutrition
Cream cheese frosting is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with a wide range of baked goods, including cakes, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and pastries. Its adaptability makes it a popular choice for various desserts, from classic carrot cake to modern red velvet cupcakes.
