20 Delicious Frosting Recipes with Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

Dive into the sweet world of homemade frosting with our roundup of 20 Delicious Frosting Recipes that all start with powdered sugar and vanilla! Whether you’re dressing up cupcakes, layering a cake, or just satisfying a sweet tooth, these easy-to-follow recipes promise to add that perfect creamy, fluffy, or rich finish to your desserts. Get ready to whisk, mix, and spread your way to frosting heaven!

Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Nothing beats the creamy, dreamy goodness of Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting—it’s the perfect finishing touch to any cake or cupcake.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt. Beat on high speed for an additional 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. If the frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

This buttercream stands out for its velvety texture and rich vanilla flavor, making it a versatile base for any dessert decoration.

Tip: For a whiter frosting, use clear vanilla extract instead of the regular kind.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect blend of rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese, creating a decadent topping that elevates any dessert from good to unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat together 8 oz cream cheese and 1/2 cup unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add 1/2 cup cocoa powder, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Slowly mix in 4 cups powdered sugar, one cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully blended before adding the next.
4. Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt, beating the frosting on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible texture is the perfect balance between the cream cheese’s tanginess and the deep chocolate flavor, making it a standout choice for cakes and cupcakes alike.

Tip: For an extra smooth frosting, sift the cocoa powder and powdered sugar before adding them to the mixture.

Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting

This Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting is a dreamy, fluffy topping that turns any dessert into a springtime delight. It’s bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and is surprisingly simple to make!

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue to beat until stiff peaks form, about 2 more minutes.
3. Gently fold in the strawberry puree until fully incorporated and the frosting is a uniform pink color.
4. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or as a dip for fresh fruit.

The magic of this frosting lies in its lightness and the vibrant, natural strawberry flavor that shines through without overpowering the sweetness. It’s perfect for adding a fresh, fruity touch to your desserts.

Tip: For the best results, ensure your heavy whipping cream is well-chilled before whipping, and use fresh strawberries for the puree to capture that bright, authentic flavor.

Lemon Zest Buttercream Frosting

Brighten up your cakes with this irresistibly zesty Lemon Zest Buttercream Frosting, perfect for adding a sunny touch to any dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Beat on high speed for an additional 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

The secret to this frosting’s vibrant flavor is the fresh lemon zest, which packs a punch without overpowering the sweetness.

Tip: For an extra smooth frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the butter.

Mocha Coffee Frosting

Elevate your desserts with this rich and creamy Mocha Coffee Frosting, a perfect blend of chocolate and coffee that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup unsalted butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add the 3 cups powdered sugar and 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the butter, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Pour in the 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of coffee at a time until desired consistency is reached.

This Mocha Coffee Frosting stands out with its deep coffee flavor perfectly balanced with the richness of chocolate, making it an irresistible topping for cakes and cupcakes.

Tip: For an extra coffee kick, use espresso powder dissolved in a tablespoon of hot water instead of brewed coffee.

Peanut Butter Cream Frosting

This Peanut Butter Cream Frosting is a dreamy, fluffy topping that transforms any cake or cupcake into a decadent treat with its rich, nutty flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
3. Pour in 1/4 cup heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Mix in 1/4 teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes, or store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistibly smooth texture is the combination of heavy cream and peanut butter, creating a perfect spreadable consistency that holds its shape.

Tip: For an extra peanut butter punch, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the frosted dessert.

Maple Syrup Buttercream Frosting

This Maple Syrup Buttercream Frosting is a dreamy, sweet topping that brings a touch of autumn to any dessert, with its rich maple flavor and silky smooth texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the 3 cups of powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Pour in the 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Beat on medium-high speed for an additional 3 minutes, until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible flavor is the pure maple syrup, which adds a depth of sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the richness of the butter.

Tip: For an extra maple kick, drizzle a little extra syrup over the frosted dessert just before serving.

Coconut Lime Frosting

Brighten up your desserts with this creamy Coconut Lime Frosting, a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with vanilla or coconut cakes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 3-4 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Use immediately to frost your cooled cake or cupcakes, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature and beat again before using if refrigerated.

The zest and juice of fresh lime give this frosting a vibrant flavor that cuts through the sweetness, making it a standout on any dessert.

Tip: For an extra coconutty flavor, toast some shredded coconut and sprinkle it on top of the frosted cake.

Raspberry Mascarpone Frosting

This Raspberry Mascarpone Frosting is a dreamy, creamy topping that pairs perfectly with your favorite cakes or cupcakes, adding a luxurious touch with its sweet and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mash the fresh raspberries with a fork until they’re mostly pureed but still slightly chunky.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese and unsalted butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
5. Fold in the mashed raspberries gently until just combined, leaving streaks of raspberry throughout the frosting for a marbled effect.
6. Use immediately to frost your cakes or cupcakes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours if you need to firm it up slightly before using.

The magic of this frosting lies in the balance between the rich mascarpone and the bright, fruity raspberries, creating a flavor that’s both indulgent and refreshing.

Tip: For a smoother frosting, you can puree the raspberries and strain out the seeds before adding them to the mix.

Orange Blossom Honey Frosting

Elevate your cakes and cupcakes with this Orange Blossom Honey Frosting, a floral and sweet topping that’s as enchanting as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange blossom honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the 3 cups powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add the 2 tablespoons orange blossom honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Beat on high speed for 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Fold in the 1/2 teaspoon orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the frosting.

The subtle floral notes from the orange blossom honey paired with the bright citrus zest create a frosting that’s irresistibly aromatic and perfectly balanced in sweetness.

Tip: For an even more pronounced orange flavor, add a few drops of orange extract along with the vanilla.

Mint Chocolate Chip Frosting

This Mint Chocolate Chip Frosting is a dreamy, creamy topping that turns any dessert into a refreshing treat with its cool mint flavor and rich chocolate bits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Green food coloring (optional)
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. If using, add a few drops of green food coloring and beat until the color is uniform.
5. Fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the frosting.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible texture is the perfect balance of creamy butter and crunchy chocolate chips, making it a standout for cupcakes and cakes alike.

Tip: For an extra minty kick, add a drop or two more of peppermint extract to taste.

Caramel Swirl Frosting

This Caramel Swirl Frosting is a dreamy, buttery delight that turns any cake into a showstopper with its rich caramel flavor and gorgeous swirls.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for swirling
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, beating on low until combined, then increase to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes until fluffy.
3. Mix in 1/2 cup caramel sauce and 1/4 teaspoon salt until fully incorporated.
4. Spread the frosting over your cooled cake. Then, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and use a knife to swirl it into the frosting for a marbled effect.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible texture is the perfect balance of creamy butter and gooey caramel, creating swirls that are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Tip: For an extra caramel kick, warm the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling to make swirling easier and more dramatic.

Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect blend of creamy and spiced, making it an irresistible topping for your favorite fall desserts.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated, then increase to medium speed for a fluffy texture.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined and smooth.
4. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Let it soften at room temperature before using if refrigerated.

The subtle pumpkin flavor and warm spices in this frosting elevate any dessert from ordinary to extraordinary, without overpowering the sweetness.

Tip: For a smoother frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.

Almond Amaretto Frosting

This Almond Amaretto Frosting is a dreamy, boozy topping that turns any cake into a celebration with its rich almond flavor and smooth texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, amaretto liqueur, almond extract, and salt. Beat on high speed for 3-4 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Use immediately to frost your favorite cake or cupcakes, or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible flavor is the combination of amaretto and almond extract, creating a depth that’s both sophisticated and comforting.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the amaretto with an additional tablespoon of heavy cream and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Blueberry Lemon Frosting

Brighten up any dessert with this luscious Blueberry Lemon Frosting, a perfect blend of tangy and sweet that’ll elevate your cakes and cupcakes to the next level.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh blueberry puree
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the blueberry puree, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for an additional 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature and beat again before using if refrigerated.

The vibrant color and refreshing citrus note from the lemon zest make this frosting a standout, especially when paired with vanilla or lemon cakes.

Tip: For a smoother frosting, strain the blueberry puree to remove any skins before adding it to the mix.

Cherry Vanilla Frosting

This Cherry Vanilla Frosting is a dreamy, fluffy topping that turns any cupcake or cake into a special treat with its sweet cherry flavor and hint of vanilla.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 12 maraschino cherries, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Pour in the maraschino cherry juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on high speed for 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes, garnishing each with finely chopped maraschino cherries for a pop of color and extra cherry flavor.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible flavor is the combination of real maraschino cherry juice and vanilla, creating a perfect balance of sweet and aromatic.

Tip: For a deeper cherry flavor, add a few drops of almond extract along with the vanilla.

Gingerbread Spice Frosting

Transform your baked goods into festive treats with this warmly spiced Gingerbread Spice Frosting, perfect for adding a holiday touch to cookies, cakes, or cupcakes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar, mixing after each addition until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in 1/4 cup molasses, 2 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
4. Add 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Beat for an additional 2 minutes until all spices are evenly distributed and the frosting is light and airy.

The deep molasses flavor paired with the blend of gingerbread spices creates a frosting that’s not just a topping but a standout flavor of its own.

Tip: For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

White Chocolate Raspberry Frosting

Transform your cupcakes into a dreamy dessert with this luscious White Chocolate Raspberry Frosting, a perfect blend of sweet and tart that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup raspberry puree (from about 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, strained)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Melt 1 cup white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the melted white chocolate, 1/4 cup raspberry puree, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium speed until fully combined and smooth.
4. Use immediately to frost cooled cupcakes or cakes, or refrigerate for 15 minutes if a firmer consistency is desired.

The magic of this frosting lies in the vibrant raspberry puree cutting through the richness of white chocolate, creating a beautifully balanced flavor that’s as visually stunning as it is tasty.

Tip: For an extra raspberry punch, fold in a handful of finely chopped fresh raspberries after mixing.

Banana Caramel Frosting

Transform your cakes and cupcakes with this luscious Banana Caramel Frosting, a creamy delight that combines the rich flavors of caramel with the sweet, natural taste of bananas.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the caramel sauce and mashed banana to the butter, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat for an additional 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

The secret to this frosting’s irresistible flavor is the perfect balance between the deep, buttery caramel and the fresh, fruity banana, creating a frosting that’s as unique as it is delicious.

Tip: For an extra smooth texture, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture.

Espresso Chocolate Frosting

Elevate your desserts with this rich Espresso Chocolate Frosting, a perfect blend of deep chocolate and bold coffee flavors that will make any cake or cupcake unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar and 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the butter, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. If the frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

The espresso powder not only intensifies the chocolate flavor but also adds a subtle coffee kick that coffee lovers will adore. Perfect for piping or spreading, this frosting sets beautifully for a professional finish.

Tip: For an extra coffee flavor, dissolve the espresso powder in the heavy cream before adding it to the mixture.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 Delicious Frosting Recipes with Powdered Sugar and Vanilla inspires your next baking adventure! Each recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients creating something extraordinary. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-makes on Pinterest. Happy baking!