Honey Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

If you're on the hunt for a frosting that is both creamy and slightly tangy with a touch of sweetness, this Honey Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting is your answer. It's a delightful twist on the classic cream cheese frosting, perfect for adding a special touch to your cakes and cupcakes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Rich, creamy texture that's easy to spread.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, with only a handful of ingredients.
  • Uses honey for a natural sweetness and unique flavor.

Ingredients

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

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by placing the softened cream cheese and butter into a large mixing bowl. You'll want to beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It should take about a couple of minutes. Next, add the honey and vanilla extract. Mix them in thoroughly, ensuring they're evenly combined with the cream cheese and butter.

Now, gradually introduce the powdered sugar. Do this one cup at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen. Once all the sugar is in, add a pinch of salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and whip the frosting until it becomes light and fluffy. This should take a minute or two. Your frosting is now ready to be used right away, or you can store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to frost your baked goods.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smoother blend.
  • If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
  • For a stiffer frosting, chill it in the fridge for about 15 minutes before using.

Serving Suggestions

This frosting pairs beautifully with carrot cake, red velvet cupcakes, or even a classic vanilla cake. It can also be a delicious filling for whoopie pies or a decadent topping for cinnamon rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before using.
Can I use salted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it's best to use unsalted so you can control the saltiness of the frosting.

Ingredients Explained

Cream cheese is the base of this frosting, providing a rich and tangy flavor that's irresistible. Make sure it's softened to ensure a smooth mix. Butter adds creaminess and helps the frosting hold its shape — using unsalted allows you to control the salt level. The honey gives this frosting a gentle sweetness and a unique flavor twist that's a bit different from standard sugar-only frostings. Vanilla extract enriches the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch. Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting, helping to achieve the right consistency. Lastly, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the honey and vanilla extract to the mixture, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined after each addition.
4. Add a pinch of salt and increase the speed to medium-high, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator until needed.

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