Stop buying these at the store. 8 homemade frostings you can make at home
Georgia Lynn
Contributing Writer
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In the world of baking, frosting is the crown jewel that can transform a simple cake into a masterpiece. While store-bought frostings offer convenience, they often fall short in flavor and texture. Homemade frostings, on the other hand, allow you to customize flavors, control sweetness, and use fresh ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, making frosting at home is a rewarding experience that enhances your baked goods and impresses your guests.
Benefits of Making Frostings at Home
Making frosting at home provides numerous benefits. Firstly, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid preservatives and artificial flavors commonly found in store-bought options. Homemade frostings can be tailored to suit dietary needs, such as reducing sugar or using dairy-free alternatives. Additionally, the flavor and texture of homemade frosting are superior, offering a fresh and rich taste that complements your baked creations perfectly.
Essential Tools and Ingredients for Homemade Frostings
To make frosting at home, you’ll need some essential tools and ingredients. A stand mixer or hand mixer is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Basic ingredients include unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Depending on the type of frosting, you may also need cream cheese, cocoa powder, or flavor extracts. Having a piping bag and tips can help you decorate with precision, while a spatula is useful for spreading and smoothing.
1. Classic Cool Whip Frosting
Ingredients:
1 (8 oz) tub of Cool Whip, thawed
1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until it begins to thicken (about 2 minutes).
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined and fluffy.
Chill for at least 15 minutes before using.
Great for: angel food cakes, fresh fruit desserts, and trifles.
2. Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and beat until light and fluffy.
Perfect for: carrot cake, red velvet cupcakes, or cinnamon rolls.
3. Decadent Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
6 oz dark chocolate (60-70%), melted and cooled slightly
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2–3 tbsp milk (as needed)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
Sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, and mix on low until combined.
Pour in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract, then beat on high until light and fluffy.
Add milk a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Best for: chocolate cakes, brownies, and fudge cupcakes.
4. Rich Coffee Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp instant coffee granules
1 tbsp hot water
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)
Instructions:
Dissolve coffee granules in hot water and let cool slightly.
Beat butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar gradually.
Add the cooled coffee mixture and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
Add milk if frosting is too thick.
Perfect for: mocha cakes, vanilla cupcakes, or tiramisu-inspired desserts.
5. Zesty Lemon Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Beat butter until light and fluffy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
Add lemon zest and juice, and beat until smooth.
Adjust consistency with a bit more lemon juice if needed.
Excellent with: lemon cakes, vanilla cupcakes, or blueberry muffins.
6. Bakery-Style Vanilla Frosting
Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
2–3 tbsp heavy cream
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Beat butter until very creamy and pale, about 3 minutes.
Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing slowly.
Add vanilla extract, salt, and cream. Beat on high until fluffy and spreadable.
Use on: birthday cakes, sugar cookies, or cupcakes of any flavor.
7. Silky Swiss Meringue Buttercream
Ingredients:
4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
