Print

Easy 5-Minute Buttercream Frosting Recipe (Best Homemade!)

5-minute buttercream frosting - featured image

This quick and foolproof buttercream frosting comes together in just five minutes using cold butter and simple pantry staples. Perfect for last-minute baking, it’s silky, creamy, and holds its shape beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter, cold
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 34 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Cube the cold butter into small 1-inch pieces.
  2. Place cubed butter in a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat for 1 minute until slightly creamy and lighter in color.
  3. With the mixer off, add 2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix on low until mostly incorporated.
  4. Add vanilla extract and salt. Mix on low for 15 seconds.
  5. Add remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix on low until it starts to come together.
  6. With mixer running on low, slowly drizzle in 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream. The mixture will look dry and crumbly.
  7. Increase speed to high and beat for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides halfway through. The frosting should become smooth, fluffy, and spreadable. If too thick, add another tablespoon of milk and whip for 30 seconds.
  8. Use immediately or cover and refrigerate for later.

Notes

Start with cold butter for a sturdier frosting. Scrape the bowl halfway through whipping to avoid lumps. Add liquid slowly to achieve desired consistency. If frosting curdles, refrigerate for 10 minutes and re-whip. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Let come to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttercream frosting, easy frosting, 5-minute frosting, homemade frosting, quick frosting, vanilla buttercream