Citrus Zest Cream Cheese Frosting

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 1 minute
🍽 Serves: 12
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Citrus Zest Cream Cheese Frosting is your ticket to transforming any dessert into a refreshing and tangy delight. It's perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tart flavors with a creamy texture. This frosting elevates your baked goods, making them irresistible for any occasion.

Ingredients for Citrus Zest Cream Cheese Frosting

The heart of this recipe is cream cheese, which gives the frosting its rich and creamy base. The unsalted butter adds a subtle richness and helps with the frosting's stability. To sweeten things up, we use powdered sugar, which also helps create a smooth consistency. A splash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, while orange zest and lime zest bring that refreshing citrus kick. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest frosting texture.
  • For a stronger citrus flavor, add a bit more zest or a tiny splash of fresh orange or lime juice.
  • If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream to loosen it up.
  • Chill your frosting for 10-15 minutes before piping for more defined shapes.

Serving Suggestions

This frosting is a match made in heaven with carrot cake, lemon cupcakes, or even a simple vanilla layer cake. For a unique twist, spread it over a batch of freshly baked brownies or use it as a filling for whoopie pies. The citrus notes also pair beautifully with berry-flavored desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, but omit the additional salt to avoid an overly salty frosting.
How long can I store this frosting?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Can I freeze this frosting?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and re-whip before using.

Citrus Zest Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened. This is key to achieving a smooth and lump-free frosting. In a large mixing bowl, combine the two and beat them together until they're perfectly creamy and unified. It should look smooth and inviting.

Next, gradually add the powdered sugar. Do this one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. This method helps prevent a sugar storm in your kitchen and ensures the sugar is fully incorporated. Once all the sugar is in, the mixture should be thick and creamy.

Now, it's time to add the flavorings. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, lime zest, and salt. Mix these in until they're evenly distributed throughout the frosting. The citrus zest should be visible, giving the frosting a lovely speckled look.

Finally, increase the speed of your mixer to high and beat the frosting for another 1-2 minutes. This step aerates the frosting, making it light and fluffy. Once that's done, it's ready to be spread or piped onto your favorite baked goods.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bright, fresh citrus flavor from orange and lime zest.
  • Velvety texture that spreads easily and holds its shape.
  • Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Easy to make with simple, readily available ingredients.

Ingredients

1 lb cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp lime zest
1/8 tsp salt

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition, until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, lime zest, and salt, mixing until evenly distributed.
4. Continue beating the mixture on high speed for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.
5. Spread or pipe onto your favorite cooled baked goods for a refreshing citrus finish.

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