Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with Butter

I'm so excited to share this Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with you. Let's face it..The perfect cupcake is just not complete without that special layer of homemade cream cheese frosting. 

If you're looking for the best cream cheese frosting recipe, this is it. It's like a cream cheese buttercream frosting. It's seriously good enough to eat with a spoon. 

Why Homemade Frosting? 

There's nothing quite like the rich, velvety allure of cream cheese frosting. This decadent topping can transform a simple cake into a gourmet dessert. If you've always reached for store-bought versions, it's time to experience the joy of making your own from scratch.

Commercially made frostings might be convenient, but they often contain preservatives and additives. When you make your own, you're in control of the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and more natural taste.

Kitchen Tools You May Need To Make This Easy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Electric Mixer

Ingredients You Need To Make Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8oz package cream cheese
• 1 stick unsalted butter, room temp butter
• 1 pound confectioners' sugar (aka powdered sugar)
• 1 tsp butter vanilla emulsion 
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream 

How To Make Cream Cheese Frosting

{Scroll down for a printable recipe card.}

Grab a large bowl and an electric mixer. You can use an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer, but you're definitely going to want an electric mixer to get the perfect consistency for this easy frosting recipe.

To make the best cream cheese icing, you need to let your butter and cream cheese come to room temperature before you mix them together. 

Then, turn your mixer to low speed to mix the cream cheese and softened butter together. Once the mixture starts to get smooth, set your mixer on medium speed for another minute.

Add one cup of powdered sugar at a time and mix until smooth. 

Add butter vanilla emulsion. Be sure to scrape the sides of your bowl periodically as you work, so that the mixture will blend well.

Add heavy cream until it's spreadable. I usually use 2-3 Tablespoons. 

Use this to frost a cake or cupcake, or serve with graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit. You can even eat it with a spoon! I won't judge. 

FAQ’s about Cream Cheese Frosting 

What things does Cream Cheese frosting go best with?

I think cream cheese frosting goes well with a variety of desserts, but think it's the perfect complement to carrot cake, red velvet cake, apple cider cupcakes, cinnamon rolls (or my crockpot cinnamon roll casserole), and pumpkin cake. If you're like me, the cream cheese flavor adds so much richness to all of my favorite cakes. 

You can also use pretzel rods, apple slices, or strawberries. It's even to-die-for on banana bread. There are so many amazing options! 

What if I don't have an Electric Mixer?

You can also use the whisk attachment on a stand mixer.

Why do I need to bring the cream cheese and butter to room temperature? 

Allowing the cream cheese and butter to reach room temperature ensures that they mix together seamlessly, resulting in a smoother, creamier texture for your frosting.

What's the difference between butter vanilla emulsion and extract? 

Emulsions are water-based, while extracts are alcohol-based. Emulsions often provide a more robust flavor, especially when exposed to high heat.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of the butter vanilla emulsion? 

Yes, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for butter vanilla emulsion. While the flavor profile may differ slightly, the result will still be delicious. The butter vanilla emulsion provides a richer, more buttery vanilla flavor, but if you only have vanilla extract on hand, it'll work just fine.

Is there something I can use instead of heavy cream? 

Certainly! If you don't have heavy cream on hand or prefer an alternative, you can use milk, half-and-half, or even non-dairy options like almond milk or coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the consistency and richness might vary slightly based on your choice.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe? 

Technically, you can do whatever you want, but I personally wouldn't use low-fat cream cheese. It will change the texture and the richness of the frosting may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier, more indulgent texture.

How should I store the leftover frosting? 

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week when stored properly.

Can I freeze the frosting for later use? 

Yes, you can freeze cream cheese frosting. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Can I add any other flavors or mix-ins? 

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can mix in cocoa powder to make a chocolate cream cheese frosting or add zests like lemon or orange for a citrusy twist.

How do I prevent my frosting from getting too runny? 

Ensure you add your liquid ingredients gradually if you want a thicker frosting. If it does turn out too thin, additional powdered sugar can help thicken it.

Can I color my cream cheese frosting? 

Absolutely! Gel-based food coloring works best as it won't alter the consistency of the frosting.

How is this cream cheese buttercream recipe different from a traditional buttercream frosting?

This cream cheese buttercream has a slightly tangier flavor thanks to the addition of cream cheese.

Check out some of my favorite recipes that you can use this great cream cheese frosting on!

Best White Chocolate Raspberry Bundt Cake {Nothing Bundt Cake Copycat Recipe}

Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread

Pull Apart Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin Muffins

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