Maple Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 12
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If you're looking for a frosting that brings a warm, cozy vibe to your desserts, this Maple Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting is your go-to. It’s a perfect blend of rich flavors with a touch of elegance, making it suitable for everything from cupcakes to quick breads.

Ingredients for Maple Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

The heart of this frosting is cream cheese, providing a tangy base that balances sweetness. Unsalted butter adds richness and helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture. Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting without grittiness. Pure maple syrup is the star, infusing the frosting with its unique, deep sweetness that's miles apart from artificial syrups. A dash of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors, while finely chopped walnuts lend a nutty crunch and complexity.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • For a smoother texture, sift the powdered sugar before adding it.
  • Toasting the walnuts before chopping can enhance their flavor.
  • If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This frosting pairs wonderfully with carrot cake, pumpkin muffins, or even on a simple vanilla cake to elevate its flavors. For a festive touch, try it on a spiced apple cake or cupcakes. It’s also delightful spread on banana bread for an afternoon treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit any additional salt in the recipe to prevent overpowering the sweetness.
How do I store leftover frosting?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before using it again.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance; just store it in the fridge and give it a quick mix before using.

Maple Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and combining your softened cream cheese and butter. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed until you get a smooth, creamy mixture. It should look fluffy and well combined.

Next, slowly add the powdered sugar to the mix. Keep your mixer on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen. Once all the sugar is in, increase the speed slightly and continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.

Now, pour in the pure maple syrup and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, with no lumps. The maple syrup will give it a beautiful color and a rich aroma.

Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts gently using a spatula. You want them evenly distributed throughout the frosting without over-mixing, which could make the frosting too stiff.

Your frosting is now ready to use! Spread it over cakes, cupcakes, or any baked goods you fancy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the tangy smoothness of cream cheese with the earthy sweetness of maple syrup.
  • Rich and creamy texture that spreads easily over any baked good.
  • Walnuts add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Quick to make with just a few simple steps.
  • No fancy equipment needed — just a bowl and a mixer!

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter, beating until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the pure maple syrup and vanilla extract, blending until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
4. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the frosting.
5. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or other baked goods as desired.

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