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Vanilla Frosting





Yields
Makes about 2 1/2 cups



Prep Time
10 mins

This vanilla frosting can be flavored many ways; see our variations that follow. You can make the frosting up to 2 days ahead; cover and chill. Bring to room temperature and stir until creamy and spreadable before using.

su – Vanilla Frosting




Photo: Lee Harrelson; Styling: Jan Gautro, Laura Zapalowski
 1 cup (1/2 lb.) unsalted butter, at room temperature
 4 cups (1 lb.) powdered sugar, sifted
 1/8 teaspoon salt
 2 tablespoons milk
 2 teaspoons vanilla
Step 1
1

In a bowl, with a mixer (preferably fitted with whisk attachment) on low speed, beat butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and the salt until blended. Add milk and vanilla; beat until blended. Add remaining powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until incorporated. Turn mixer to high speed and beat frosting until fluffy and smooth.

Step 2
2

Coffee frosting: Replace milk and vanilla with 4 teaspoons instant espresso powder dissolved in 3 tablespoons hot water, then cooled.

Step 3
3

Lemon frosting: Replace milk with 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and vanilla with 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel.

Step 4
4

Mint frosting: Replace vanilla with 4 teaspoons crème de menthe or 1 teaspoon mint extract and 2 or 3 drops green food coloring, if desired.

Step 5
5

Orange frosting: Replace milk with 2 tablespoons orange juice, and vanilla with 2 teaspoons grated orange peel.

Step 6
6

Note: Nutritional analysis is per tablespoon of Vanilla Frosting.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 0

Amount Per Serving
Calories 86Calories from Fat 48
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4.6g8%

Saturated Fat 2.9g15%
Cholesterol 13mg5%
Sodium 84mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 11g4%

Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Protein 0.1g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.