If you're looking for a frosting that packs a punch of flavor, this Zesty Citrus Cream Cheese Frosting is your new best friend. Perfect for brightening up cakes, cupcakes, or even a simple loaf of banana bread, it adds a delightful zing that's hard to resist.
Cream cheese is the base, lending a rich, smooth texture and a slight tang that pairs perfectly with citrus. Butter adds creaminess and helps the frosting to set nicely. Powdered sugar is the sweetener, making the frosting smooth and easy to spread. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet undertone. The lemon zest and orange zest are the stars, bringing in fresh, aromatic citrus notes. Lemon juice adds a bit more tanginess and helps to balance the sweetness. Lastly, a pinch of salt rounds out the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
This frosting is a match made in heaven with lemon or vanilla cakes. Try it on a carrot cake for a fun twist, or use it to top a batch of blueberry muffins. Its bright flavor also pairs wonderfully with a plain pound cake, turning it into a zesty delight.
First things first, make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened. You want them to blend smoothly without any lumps. In a large mixing bowl, combine these two ingredients. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Next, gradually add the powdered sugar. Start your mixer on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen. Mix until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Now, it's time to add the flavor bombs: stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, and a small pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined and the frosting is fluffy. Taste and adjust if necessary — sometimes a touch more zest can make all the difference!
Once your frosting is ready, it's time to spread or pipe it onto your favorite baked goods. A simple spatula works great for spreading, while a piping bag can help create more decorative designs.
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