Ready to add a burst of sunshine to your desserts? This Zesty Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet. It's a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their cakes and cupcakes with a refreshing twist.
Cream cheese is the star of this frosting, providing a rich, tangy base that pairs beautifully with the lemon. Make sure it's softened to ensure a smooth consistency. Unsalted butter adds creaminess and helps stabilize the frosting. Powdered sugar is essential for sweetness and gives the frosting its perfect, fluffy texture. Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest bring a vibrant citrus flavor that makes this frosting unforgettable. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, and a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste.
This frosting is a match made in heaven for anything lemon-flavored, like a classic lemon cake or cupcakes. It also pairs beautifully with vanilla or poppy-seed bases. For a sophisticated dessert, try it with a blueberry cake or use it to top a batch of fresh-baked scones for a delightful afternoon treat.
Start by placing the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about a minute or two on medium speed. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
Next, gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Mix on low speed after each addition to prevent a sugar cloud from forming in your kitchen. Once all the sugar is incorporated, crank up the speed to medium and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Now it’s time to add the flavor boosters! Pour in the fresh lemon juice, sprinkle in the lemon zest, and add the vanilla extract along with the salt. Beat the mixture on medium speed until everything is well combined and the frosting is airy and smooth.
Your frosting is now ready to use! Spread it generously over cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If you're saving it for later, just pop it in the fridge, and it'll keep well until you're ready to use it.
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