Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Cream cheese frosting holds a special place in the world of desserts. It’s creamy, it’s rich, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of baked goods. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, mastering this frosting can elevate your desserts from good to unforgettable. It’s the kind of recipe that, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again, not just for its flavor but for its simplicity and versatility.

Cream cheese frosting is an absolute must on carrot cake, red velvet cake, and banana cake!

Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Ingredients & Substitutions

• Cream Cheese: The star of the show, it gives the frosting its rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps to achieve a smooth consistency. Unsalted butter can be used if you prefer to control the saltiness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste, but artificial vanilla can be used in a pinch.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure. For a thicker frosting, simply add more powdered sugar.

While it’s tempting to experiment with low-fat or dairy-free alternatives in search of a healthier version of cream cheese frosting, it’s important to note that such substitutions can significantly alter the taste and texture of the final product. For the best results that truly capture the rich, creamy essence of this classic frosting, we recommend sticking to the original recipe. This ensures that your desserts will always have that perfect balance of flavor and texture that makes cream cheese frosting a beloved favorite.

How do I make thick cream cheese frosting?

Cream cheese frosting can vary in consistency based on the temperature. The easiest way to thicken up cream cheese frosting is to pop it in the refrigerator. As the fats from the cream cheese and butter cool, the frosting will change consistency and become much thicker. No extra powdered sugar required!

Alternatively, you can add up to 1/2 cup of cornstarch to the frosting mixture to thicken. This will not impact the flavor of the frosting.

Decorating With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Piping:
  • Create elegant swirls on cupcakes or cakes.
  • Ideal for adding sophisticated touches to any dessert.
• Spreading:
  • Use a knife for a smooth, classic finish on sheet cakes or round cakes.
  • Achieve a homely, inviting look with ease.
• Layering:
  • Perfect as a creamy filling between cake tiers.
  • Adds a delicious contrast in textures and flavors.
• Dabbing on Cookies:
  • A sweet and tangy addition to your favorite cookies.
  • Elevates simple baked goods to festive treats.
• Swirling into Dessert Bars:
  • Incorporate into the batter of dessert bars for a creamy surprise.
  • Adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness.

Coloring Cream Cheese Frosting

When coloring cream cheese frosting, the type of food coloring you choose can make all the difference:

• Gel Food Coloring: Highly concentrated and perfect for achieving deep, vibrant colors without altering the frosting’s consistency. A little goes a long way, and you can easily adjust the intensity of the color by adding more or less.
• Liquid Food Coloring: Readily available and easy to use, but it can thin out your frosting if you add too much. Best for achieving pastel colors.
• Powder Food Coloring: Ideal for getting intense colors without adding liquid. This type is great for decorating cookies or when you need a very specific shade.
• Natural Food Coloring: Made from fruits, vegetables, and spices, these are perfect for those seeking a more natural approach. Keep in mind that colors might be more muted compared to synthetic options.

Adding color to your cream cheese frosting opens up a world of decorative possibilities, from elegant floral designs to fun, themed party cakes. Remember to add the coloring a little at a time until you achieve your desired hue, and always mix thoroughly to ensure the color is evenly distributed.

Make Ahead Instructions

You can make cream cheese frosting a couple of days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator. The frosting will thicken significantly in the fridge and may become too difficult to work with. To soften, let sit at room temperature for 1 hour.

Frosting Storage Instructions

Cream cheese frostings need to be refrigerated for food safety reasons, and lasts for up to 5 days in the fridge. A baked good frosted with cream cheese frosting should also be refrigerated. Cream cheese frosting can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours safely.

Watch the video below where Rachel will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.

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