Quick Buttercream Frosting

Quick Buttercream Frosting

15 servings
Who doesn't love rich, sumptuous buttercream frosting? You may use all butter in this quick buttercream, but using vegetable shortening makes a frosting that will be a little firmer in warmer temperatures. Also, using the optional meringue powder, while not strictly necessary, will help your frosting holds its shape.
 

Ingredients

  • unsalted butter or 1/2 cup vegetable shortening

    or a combination, softened, 92g

    8 tbsp
  • table salt
  • meringue powder

    optional, for "holding power

    1 tbsp
  • king arthur pure vanilla extract
    1 tsp
  • confectioners' sugar
    2 ½ c
  • milk
    2 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Beat the butter and/or shortening until fluffy.

  2. 2

    Beat in the salt, meringue powder, and vanilla.

  3. 3

    Add the confectioners' or glazing sugar and 2 tablespoons of the milk, and beat until smooth. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.

  4. 4

    Adjust the consistency of the frosting as needed by adding more confectioners' sugar or milk.

  5. 5

    If you're not going to use the frosting right away, keep it at room temperature, covered, to prevent it from developing a dry crust.

Quick Buttercream Frosting

Quick Buttercream Frosting

4.6(77)10 min15 servings130 cal

Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 77 ratings

kingarthurbaking.com
4.6(77 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Need a vibrant, delicious frosting for your cakes and cupcakes that comes together in a flash? This Quick Buttercream Frosting recipe is your answer, delivering rich flavor and a smooth texture perfect for any celebration.

What sets this buttercream apart is its effortless preparation combined with smart ingredient choices. You have the flexibility to use either all butter for classic richness or incorporate vegetable shortening for a frosting that holds up beautifully, especially in warmer settings.

Prepare for a truly delightful experience with this buttercream. It’s wonderfully smooth and creamy, with a sweet, classic vanilla flavor that complements any baked good. The optional meringue powder is a clever touch, ensuring your decorations maintain their crisp shape and structure, making your creations look professionally finished. Plus, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and grain-free, perfect for those with dietary considerations, without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or quality.

While delightful as is, this Quick Buttercream Frosting offers flexibility. You can choose to use all butter for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience, or swap in some or all vegetable shortening for a frosting with extra stability, ideal for piping intricate designs or when serving in warmer climates. Remember, the meringue powder is entirely optional; it's there to provide additional 'holding power' for a firmer, more stable frosting.

This versatile buttercream is perfect for all your baking adventures, from birthday cakes and holiday cookies to everyday cupcakes. Its generous yield means you'll have plenty to frost a whole batch of treats, making any occasion feel like a special celebration.

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