Small Batch Buttercream Frosting

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Quick Jump

Close up of small cupcakes with small batch buttercream frosting piped on top in a swirl pattern

Recipe Rundown

Taste	Buttercream frosting will adopt the taste of whichever extract you use! Try substituting the vanilla extract for other flavored extracts to truly customize your baked items!
Texture	Whipping the butter fully and sifting the powdered sugar are critical steps for a super creamy buttercream frosting.
Color	For a whiter appearance, use clear flavored extracts.
Quantity	This recipe will fill one piping bag.

creamy small batch buttercream frosting in a mixing bowl with rubber spatula

Everyone needs a go-to recipe for buttercream frosting and this is mine! It is a super creamy frosting with a flavor base that is incredibly versatile. Use this recipe to elevate your baked goods today!

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, beat one stick of unsalted butter with the paddle attachment until creamed. This generally takes 10-15 minutes. When the butter turns a pale yellow with a light and fluffy appearance, this is your cue to stop and move onto step two .

whipped butter light in color and airy in texture in a sliver mixing bowl fitted with paddle attachment

Once the butter is whipped, sift in 2 cups of powdered sugar and return to mixing on a medium speed. the butter and sugar will start off clumpy but will quickly form into a creamier mixture that we are all more familiar with.

Carefully sifting powdered sugar into whipped butter for oerfectly creamy small batch buttercream frosting

Lastly, add in in your teaspoon of extract. This recipe is for a classic buttercream frosting so we used vanilla extract.

If your frosting is still a little too thick, add in 1/8 teaspoon of milk or water. Not everyone will need this because it will vary based on the temperature of your home. A warmer setting will yield a creamy frosting right away. Cooler temperatures, like inside the fridge, will firm your frosting right up!

close up of creamy small batch buttercream frosting on a white plate

How Long Does Buttercream Frosting Last?

Homemade buttercream frosting lasts up to 2 days at room temperature, about a week in the refrigerator, and up to 3 months in the freezer when stored in an airtight container. Let refrigerated or frozen buttercream come to room temperature and re-whip before using.