Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
This homemade cream cheese frosting is rich, creamy, and perfectly sweetened. It’s an ideal topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, adding a smooth and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, about 2 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat again until creamy and smooth. The longer you beat the frosting, the thinner it will become. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter frosting, use reduced-fat cream cheese, but expect a slightly less rich texture.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a few drops of lemon juice.
- To make the frosting thicker, chill it for 30 minutes before spreading.
- Try using maple syrup instead of vanilla for a unique twist on the flavor.
Storage
Store leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, let it soften at room temperature and gently rewhip if needed. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature and rewhip briefly before decorating.
What if my frosting is too thick or too thin?
If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream and beat until smooth. If it’s too thin, beat it longer or refrigerate it to firm up before using.
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Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost 3 servings or approximately 12 cupcakes
Description
A rich and creamy homemade cream cheese frosting made with softened full-fat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other sweet treats, this frosting is easy to whip up in just 10 minutes using a mixer for a smooth, luscious texture.
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Continue beating until the frosting is creamy and lump-free. The longer you beat, the thinner the frosting will become.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream and beat again to reach your desired consistency.
Notes
- Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth frosting.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of powdered sugar.
- For a thinner frosting, add milk or cream a little at a time.
- This frosting needs to be stored in the refrigerator if not used immediately due to the cream cheese content.
- Bring to room temperature before using if chilled, to make spreading easier.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cream cheese frosting, homemade frosting, cream cheese, buttercream, easy frosting, vanilla frosting

