Vanilla Dream Buttercream

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 12
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

This Vanilla Dream Buttercream is your go-to frosting for special occasions and everyday treats alike. Its creamy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a standout choice for decorating cakes, cupcakes, or even cookies. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is as delightful to make as it is to taste.

Ingredients for Vanilla Dream Buttercream

Butter is the base of this buttercream, providing a rich, creamy texture. Make sure it's unsalted to control the seasoning yourself. Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting while helping it maintain a smooth consistency, perfect for spreading or piping. The heavy cream adds lusciousness and makes the frosting fluffy, while vanilla extract infuses it with a warm, fragrant aroma. A touch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra smooth frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding.
  • Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. Avoid imitation vanilla.
  • If your buttercream is too thick, add a little more cream, a tablespoon at a time.
  • If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar, a quarter cup at a time.
  • Bring refrigerated buttercream to room temperature before using.

Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Dream Buttercream pairs beautifully with classic vanilla or chocolate cake. For a twist, try it on a lemon cake for a refreshing contrast. It also works wonderfully as a filling for macarons or sandwiched between cookies for a decadent treat. For a festive touch, add sprinkles or edible glitter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this buttercream ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before using.
How can I make this buttercream dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Why is my buttercream grainy?
Graininess can happen if the powdered sugar isn’t fully dissolved. Be sure to beat the mixture thoroughly and sift the powdered sugar before adding.

Vanilla Dream Buttercream Recipe Walkthrough

Start by placing your softened butter into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed. You're aiming for a creamy, fluffy texture here, which should take about 2 minutes. It's important to properly soften the butter beforehand to avoid lumps in your buttercream.

Next, gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Keep your mixer on low speed initially to prevent a cloud of sugar covering your kitchen. As each cup of sugar gets incorporated, you’ll notice the mixture thickening and lightening in color.

Now, pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. These two ingredients transform the texture, making it silky and smooth. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and continue beating for another 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on the consistency; you want it light and fluffy but still firm enough to hold its shape.

Finally, sprinkle in the salt and mix on low speed for an additional minute. This ensures that all ingredients are fully incorporated, giving you a well-balanced buttercream ready to use. If you’re storing it, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of creamy and sweet with a hint of vanilla.
  • Easy to customize with different flavors or colors.
  • Only five ingredients — simple yet indulgent.
  • Ready in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute baking projects.
  • Holds its shape well, perfect for piping and decorating.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until well combined.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for another 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Add the salt and mix on low speed for an additional minute to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Use immediately or store according to instructions.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!