Go Back
+ servings
basic-american-buttercream-3
Print Recipe
4.92 from 45 votes

Basic American Buttercream Frosting

American buttercream is the easiest style of buttercream to make with very few ingredients and steps. American buttercream is a classic with home bakers because of how quick it is to make and how versatile it is for cupcakes and cakes!
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: buttercream
Servings: 24 cupcakes
Calories: 222kcal
Author: Amanda Rettke - iambaker.net

Ingredients

  • 4 sticks (1 pound / 454 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 8 cups (2 pounds / 907 g) confectioners' sugar, sifted
  • 1 large pinch kosher salt
  • 1-3 tablespoons whole milk, as needed
  • extracts and flavorings as desired

Instructions

  • Combine the butter, sugar, and flavorings in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
  • Start mixing on low speed until the sugar is incorporated with the butter. Increase the mixing speed to high and beat until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  • Adjust the consistency with milk as needed.
  • Store unused buttercream in the refrigerator in an airtight container and bring it back to room temperature before using to pipe or frost.

Video

Notes

Note: This recipe makes enough buttercream to generously frost 48 cupcakes or a 4-layer 9” round cake.

Nutrition

Serving: 48g | Calories: 222kcal