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–+ servings
vanilla bean buttercream frosting swirls.

Vanilla Bean Buttercream Frosting

Mimi Council
This easy American buttercream frosting recipe is a classic to use on anything from cakes, to cupcakes, cookies, and brownies! You'll love this Vanilla Bean Buttercream Frosting that uses real vanilla bean.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Ingredient
Cuisine American
Makes 12 servings
Calories 284 kcal

Equipment

  • Digital Food Scale
  • Stand Mixer

Ingredients
 
 

  • 226 grams salted butter (softened)
  • 454 grams powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 1 teaspoon ground vanilla bean
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons milk

Instructions
 

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean. Mix on low until combined.
  • Speed up mixer to high and mix for 1 minute or until light and fluffy. Scrape down the mixer and paddle, and mix again for 1 to 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add milk as needed to create the stiffness of frosting that you want.
  • Use for cakes, cupcakes, sandwich cookies or enjoy with a spoon!

Video

Notes

Tips
  • Always weigh ingredients for the best results.
  • Make sure butter is soft before beginning. It's best to let it soften at room temperature. But, if you need to microwave it, only do 10 second intervals at a time to prevent melting.
  • Sift powdered sugar to avoid clumps and ensure you have a smooth frosting.
  • Scrape down the sides of the bowl part way through mixing. This ensures everything is combined and the frosting is all uniform. 
  • Whip until light and fluffy.
  • Add liquid only as needed, you can't take it out, but you can add it in as needed. So, I always say start off small and add more as needed to get the desired consistency.
  • Vegan — Use vegan butter and vegan milk. I recommend using Miyoko's for butter (though, vegetable shortening also works too). And, I like coconut milk for best flavor, but almond or oat also works.
  • High Altitude — Follow the recipe as noted.

Nutrition

Calories: 284kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 0.2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 122mgPotassium: 7mgSugar: 37gVitamin A: 472IUCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.03mg
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