Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

The Best Vanilla Buttercream Frosting for Cakes, Cupcakes, and Cookies

There’s something about a smooth, sweet vanilla buttercream frosting that brings it all together.

Whether you’re baking a birthday cake, whipping up cupcakes for a school party, or just looking to frost a batch of sugar cookies on a quiet Saturday afternoon, this easy vanilla buttercream frosting recipe is a solid go-to.

It’s made with simple ingredients most folks already keep in the pantry, and the texture is light, creamy, and easy to work with.

You may also like:

• Homemade Strawberry Cake
• Strawberry Banana Cake
• Slow Cooker Chocolate Cake
• Honey Bun Cake
• Apple Fritter Loaf Cake

Who This Vanilla Frosting Recipe Is Perfect For

This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a homemade frosting that’s dependable and easy to whip up—no need to be a professional baker.

Busy parents, beginner bakers, or anyone planning a last-minute get-together can rely on this recipe to deliver that classic vanilla flavor without a complicated process.

It’s especially great for folks who like the combination of butter and shortening in their frosting, giving it structure without sacrificing taste.

What Makes This Vanilla Buttercream Stand Out

This isn’t just any vanilla frosting. It’s made to spread easily, hold its shape, and pair well with all kinds of baked goods.

The blend of butter and shortening helps create a stable frosting that pipes beautifully for decorating cakes and cupcakes.

And with the option of adding heavy cream, milk, or even coffee creamer, you can tweak the texture and taste just the way you like it.

When to Use This Easy Vanilla Frosting Recipe

This frosting is great any time you need a sweet finish for a dessert. Use it for birthday parties, holiday treats, or even school bake sales.

It’s especially handy when you’re short on time but still want to offer something homemade.

The quick mixing time makes it a last-minute lifesaver for everything from cupcakes to cookie sandwiches.

Where This Frosting Belongs: On Everything Sweet

You can use this vanilla buttercream on so many desserts. Spread it thick between layers of a yellow cake.

Pipe it high on chocolate cupcakes. Swirl it onto cookies. Slather it over cinnamon rolls.

Or use it as a filling between whoopie pies or graham crackers for a sweet little sandwich treat.

You can even tint it with food coloring for themed desserts or special occasions.

Why This Is the Best Vanilla Buttercream Frosting for Beginners

This simple vanilla frosting recipe is easy to follow, uses basic pantry ingredients, and delivers results that taste like you spent hours on it.

There’s no fancy technique involved—just a few mixing steps to get a creamy, spreadable texture.

If you’ve ever been disappointed by store-bought frosting or overly complicated recipes, this one is worth trying.

How to Make and Store Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Making this frosting is as simple as creaming your ingredients together and whipping it until fluffy.

For best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before you start.

If you’re making it ahead of time, it stores well in the fridge for a few days. Just bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick mix before using.

Creative Ways to Use Homemade Vanilla Frosting

Beyond cakes and cupcakes, there are plenty of fun uses for this frosting.

Use it as a dip for graham crackers or pretzels for a party snack. Spread it on top of brownies or layer it inside cookie bars.

You can even mix in a little cocoa powder, cinnamon, or maple extract for a flavored twist.

Got a holiday coming up? Add seasonal sprinkles on top and make a batch of frosted cookie bars to serve.

When you’re looking for a dependable, easy vanilla buttercream frosting recipe with that perfect smooth texture, this one delivers.

It’s a solid recipe to keep in your back pocket for any occasion that calls for a sweet, homemade touch.

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients:

• 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1-pound powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream, milk or coffee creamer

Directions:

Cream butter and shortening together.

Add powdered sugar, vanilla and 1 tbsp. liquid to bowl.

Mix until incorporated.

Add an additional tbsp of liquid.

Mix on high for 3-5 mins.

Only add the last .05 tbsp of liquid if it’s not silky and a smooth.

Yield: 3 cups frosting

Frequently Asked Questions for Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

What is the best way to make vanilla buttercream frosting smooth and creamy?
To get a smooth and creamy texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. Whip the frosting on high speed for 3–5 minutes to incorporate air, which gives it that light, fluffy consistency. Adding heavy cream or milk slowly helps reach the right texture without thinning it out too much.

Can I make vanilla buttercream frosting without shortening?
Yes, you can substitute the shortening with more butter if you prefer an all-butter frosting. However, the shortening helps stabilize the frosting and makes it better for piping and warm weather.

How long does homemade vanilla buttercream frosting last?
Stored in an airtight container, vanilla buttercream frosting will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature and rewhip it for a few minutes before using to bring back the fluffy texture.

Can you freeze vanilla buttercream frosting?
Yes, this frosting freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bring it to room temperature and rewhip before using.

How much frosting does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 3 cups of frosting, which is enough to frost 12–18 cupcakes, a 9×13-inch cake, or a two-layer 8-inch cake, depending on how thick you spread it.

Can I color this vanilla buttercream frosting?
Absolutely. Use gel food coloring to maintain the frosting’s consistency. Start with a small amount and mix until you reach the desired color.

What’s the best type of milk to use in vanilla buttercream frosting?
Heavy cream gives the fluffiest texture, but whole milk or even coffee creamer can be used. Coffee creamer adds a unique flavor twist that can pair well with different cakes or cupcakes.

Why is my vanilla frosting too thick or too thin?
If your frosting is too thick, add a little more milk or cream (a teaspoon at a time) and mix well. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until it thickens to your liking.

What kind of vanilla should I use in buttercream frosting?
Pure vanilla extract gives the best flavor, but you can also use vanilla bean paste or clear vanilla extract if you want a whiter frosting for decorating.

Is this vanilla buttercream good for piping and decorating?
Yes, the combination of butter and shortening makes this frosting sturdy enough for piping borders, swirls, and even rosettes. It holds its shape well at room temperature.