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The Best 10-Minute Fluffy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

A perfect, fluffy swirl of white vanilla buttercream frosting piped onto a small white plate.

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Follow this quick tutorial to master the **Best Vanilla Buttercream Recipe** for a creamy, smooth, and stable texture perfect for piping cakes and cookies. This is the **no-fail frosting recipe** you need for stress-free decorating.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 24 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl again.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 minutes. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Beat on high speed for 1 minute to incorporate air, resulting in a **fluffy buttercream frosting**. Use immediately for decorating cakes or cupcakes.

Notes

  • For the smoothest texture, ensure your butter is truly room temperature, not melted.
  • If you need a **stable buttercream for piping** intricate designs, use less liquid (start with 2 tablespoons of cream).
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps and helps achieve that **smooth buttercream texture**.
  • This recipe yields enough to generously frost one 8-inch layer cake or about 18 standard cupcakes.

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