Cream Cheese Frosting

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In the Betty Crocker Kitchens, it’s all about achieving amazing results with as few steps as possible, with everyday ingredients, accessible techniques, and simple shortcuts. Homemade cream cheese frosting is a go-to classic for all of these reasons! As the finishing touch, the frosting practically makes the dessert, but it’s so much easier than you might think. This no-fail frosting recipe will give you the right results, every time. And did we mention it only takes five minutes?

Getting Started

All it takes is a stick of softened butter, a package of softened cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar. It’s important that you start with butter and cream cheese that have had some time to warm up. Gently press your finger into the butter and the side of the cream cheese package to test for softness. If your finger leaves an indent, you’re ready to begin. When your ingredients are soft at the start, next steps will be a breeze, and more importantly, the texture will come together quickly.

Build the Base

Using an electric hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together in a bowl, while scraping the sides, until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.

Add the Flavor

Stir in the vanilla until fully incorporated, then add the powdered sugar. Magic happens as the sugar and vanilla combine with the whipped cream cheese, and the whole mixture takes on a smooth, spreadable texture that’s perfect for frosting or piping, depending on what you’re making.

Just a few steps and you’ve got the perfect homemade Cream Cheese Frosting. Once you’ve got the texture you’re looking for, you’re ready to put the finishing touch on your dessert! You can find tips further below on how to make your frosting thicker if that’s something you’d prefer.

Storing Cream Cheese Frosting

This Cream Cheese Frosting recipe can be made in advance, saving you steps on dessert prep. If you’re making ahead of time, or if you don’t use all the frosting at once, storage is as simple as putting the frosting in an airtight container and keeping it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Here’s a tip to help it stay soft and fluffy: When you’re ready to use the frosting, let it come to room temperature. Stir again before using to get that perfect whipped cream cheese frosting texture.

Cream Cheese Frosting Flavors

One of the great strengths of this easy Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is its versatility. With just 4 ingredients, you can achieve the classic taste and texture, or make it your own by adding a dash of extra flavor.

Spice It Up

Add a touch of spice with a dash of cinnamon or boost the vanilla flavor by using the seeds of a fresh vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract. Feeling festive? Try pumpkin spice for seasonal flair.

Fresh Fruit

Stir in lemon zest or top the frosted treat with fresh berries to give your frosting a bright burst of flavor.

Bring the Sweetness

Take the sweetness up a notch with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or a sparkly dusting of granulated sugar.

Recipes Using Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting goes with just about any dessert. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time, and it’s such a versatile flavor profile that it can be the perfect accent for cakes, cookies, bars, and more. Here’s just a few of Betty’s favorites that this cream cheese frosting recipe combines with perfectly. Whatever you pair it with, it’s a smooth, sweet addition that brings a wide range of dessert flavors to the next level.

Red Velvet Cupcakes: The contrast between the fluffy, white frosting and the rich, red cupcake is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Pumpkin Spice Bars: A fall favorite that’s delicious any time of year, and a perfect chance to add a bit of flavor to the frosting itself.

Harvest Apple Cupcakes: A decadent yet wholesome cupcake that’s perfectly shareable.

Cranberry Bars: A touch of tangy goodness will make your dessert tray stand out.

Overnight Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Café-inspired confections, pair perfectly with a cozy cup of cocoa.