Learn how to make the best cream cheese frosting ever. It is perfect for frosting and decorating cakes and cupcakes. It is one of my family’s favorite frostings.
The best part is the cream cheese adds richness and a bit of tang to the frosting.
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Here’s Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You only need five ingredients. It takes 10 minutes to whip together.
This thick, rich icing is great for piping and spreading.
It pairs well with our favorite chocolate cake.
What is in Cream Cheese Frosting?
This recipe makes a creamy, thick, delicious frosting that is wonderful on red velvet, chocolate, carrot cake, and more.
Butter (softened): Adds a creamy richness with a slight sweetness.
Cream cheese: Adds velvety smoothness and slightly tangy flavor.
Powdered sugar: Powdered (confectioners) sugar adds sweetness and thickness.
Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds warmth and enhances the flavor.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting
Place softened butter and a brick of cream cheese in a mixer bowl and cream together.
Add vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture.
Next, add powdered sugar a little at a time, beating between each addition.
Cream cheese icing should be smooth, thick, and firm.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese (brick)
- 3¾ cup powdered sugar *
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Place softened butter and a brick of cream cheese in a mixer bowl.Cream together using an electric mixer.
- Add vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture then blend to incorporate.
- Next, add powdered sugar a little at a time, beating between each addition.
Notes
Tips for making Cream Cheese Frosting
- Always use full-fat cream cheese brick (never use the spreadable type).
- Add enough powdered sugar (3 to 4 cups) to make a firm, thick, pipable frosting.
- Use a mixer to blend the frosting effortlessly.
Nutrition
Tips for making Cream Cheese Frosting
- Always use full-fat cream cheese brick (never use the spreadable type).
- Add enough powdered sugar (3 to 4 cups) to make a firm, thick, pipable frosting.
- Use a mixer to blend the frosting effortlessly.
FAQs
Can you pipe cream cheese frosting?
Yes, it is smooth and thick.
Can I substitute another type of cream cheese for this recipe?
For best results, you need to use full-fat cream cheese. Never use the spreadable type.
See you soon,
Kippi
Ps. This post was shared on Between Naps on The Porch.
Sandi
Monday 20th of July 2026
So perfect. Everyone thought they were professionally made. I only used 3 cups of powdered sugar and added a splash of milk to soften just a bit