Easy 4 Ingredient Cream Cheese Frosting

cream cheese frosting being piped onto cupcake.

Easy 4 Ingredient Cream Cheese Frosting

Create the perfect cream cheese frosting with our easy, 4-ingredient recipe. Enjoy the rich, creamy, tangy flavor that’s perfect for elevating your favorite cakes, cupcakes, and MORE! It's truly a delicious frosting that everyone will love.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings: cupcakes (about 1½ cups)

Calories: 238kcal

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese
4 Tablespoons salted butter room temperature
1½ cups powdered sugar sifted
¾ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine cream cheese and butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or use a hand mixer.
Beat until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
Add powdered sugar.
Beat until well combined, about 1 minute. Once combined, beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in vanilla.

Notes

How to Store Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically stay fresh for 3-5 days.

Note: While you can freeze cream cheese frosting, the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

Sift the powdered sugar: This is KEY for a creamy, smooth frosting.
Don't overbeat: With most frostings, the more you beat it, the better. Cream cheese frosting is actually the OPPOSITE. Instead, by overbeating, you can actually cause the mixture to warm up and become thinner/runny. It's always best to mix until it's just combined and there are no lumps of powdered sugar left.
Add a pinch of salt: A pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor of the frosting.
For a thicker frosting: If you prefer a thicker frosting, refrigerate it for a short period before using!
Don't frost a warm cake: Whether you're frosting a cake or cupcakes, make sure that it's completely cooled before frosting.
Keep the frosting cool: Cream cheese frosting does not like the heat! Always keep the cake/frosting in the fridge or in a cool, air conditioned room when serving to keep the frosting from weeping.

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