Ready to take your buttercream game to the next level? Prepare to be amazed by ten sensational buttercream frosting flavors, all starting with a secret ingredient that unlocks a depth of nutty, caramelized perfection.
Get ready to explore a world of flavor possibilities, from rich chocolate to invigorating coffee, and discover how simple additions can transform your desserts.
Chocolate Buttercream
Now, who doesn't love chocolate buttercream? I mean, come on! You can make it super easily. Just whip up your normal buttercream – the video shows you how! – and then add cocoa powder! Start with about 1/2 cup for every three cups of buttercream.
Taste it! Not chocolatey enough? Add a tablespoon at a time until it's perfect for ya. I like using Dutch-processed cocoa, but regular works too. Dark cocoa? Now we're talking! It makes it extra rich! For a subtle flavour, incorporating applesauce's moist texture could create a delicious twist.
Want it even MORE intense? Melt some dark chocolate – about 2 ounces – let it cool slightly, then mix it in. Boom! Chocolate heaven! It's seriously so good, you'll want to eat it with a spoon! Don't worry, I promise I won't judge. I do it too!
Vanilla Bean Buttercream
If you're wanting something simple but still kinda fancy, vanilla bean buttercream is the way to go! It's such a classic—I think it's gonna be your new favorite.
Now, scrape the seeds from one vanilla bean. Don't throw the pod away! You can use it in so many ways. To add a warm and inviting touch to your desserts, this buttercream recipe is perfect.
Add those beautiful vanilla bean seeds to your base buttercream recipe. I recommend mixing it on medium speed so the delicate taste isn't overpowered.
Taste it! Now, I like my vanilla strong, so if you are like me, add a splash of pure vanilla extract, too—about 1/2 teaspoon should do it. Remember to mix well! Isn't that delicious?
I truly hope you enjoy this super-easy upgrade. It's guaranteed to make your cakes and cupcakes extra special and delicious! Enjoy!
Lemon Buttercream
Next up? Lemon buttercream! This one's a zesty delight – I think you'll love it.
To make it, add fresh lemon zest and juice to your base buttercream. I'm talking about, like, the zest and juice from one large lemon – maybe two if you like it really tangy!
Taste as you go friend. You can always add more lemon juice for extra zing – but be careful not to add too much, or it may make the buttercream runny. And nobody wants runny buttercream!
If it gets too thin, I recommend adding a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar to thicken it up. This will fix you right up!
Oh, and a tiny pinch of salt – trust me, it balances the sweetness!
Strawberry Buttercream
Switching gears, let's talk about Strawberry Buttercream! I think it's berry good–see what I did there?!
For incredible strawberry flavor, I've got you covered. Rather than just using extract, here's what I suggest you do:
- Strawberry Puree: Reduce fresh or frozen strawberries into a concentrated puree. This boosts flavor!
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Grind these into a powder. They add an intense burst of strawberry.
- Strawberry Jam: A spoonful to taste. Adds sweetness and more strawberry flavor.
- Pink Food Coloring (Optional): I prefer mine a pretty pink!
Remember to add these flavourings gradually to the master buttercream recipe! I always start with less and taste as I go. It will make sure the frosting is exactly how you want it! You only want the BEST.
Coffee Buttercream
Let's whip up some coffee buttercream – because who says coffee is just for drinking?!
I like to start by brewing a strong coffee. Let it cool completely. You don't want to melt your buttercream! A tablespoon or two – depending how strong you like it – will do the trick.
Now, slowly drizzle it into your basic buttercream base. We're aiming for a smooth, creamy texture. Taste as you go, adding a touch more coffee if needed!
If you want to boost the flavour, add a quarter teaspoon of instant espresso powder. It intensifies the coffee taste – yum! Just remember, a little goes a long way, so don't overdo it.
Coffee buttercream is great on chocolate cupcakes or even a simple vanilla cake.
Salted Caramel Buttercream
Craving something that's both sweet and a little bit sassy? Salted Caramel Buttercream's got you covered! It's like a warm hug and a cheeky wink all in one. I use my base buttercream recipe, then swirl in my homemade salted caramel. Here's how I get it *just right*:
- Caramel First: I make sure the caramel is thick and cooled to room temperature.
- Buttercream Prep: Whip that buttercream until it's super light and fluffy! None of the gritty stuff.
- Slow Incorporation: I incorporate caramel slowly, taste-testing along the way! Adjust sweetness to your liking.
- Embrace Texture: I avoid over-mixing – a slight swirl keeps things interesting, don't you think?
You can add a pinch of sea salt on top before serving– it really brings out that caramel flavor! Isn't it super simple!
Peanut Butter Buttercream
Moving on from salted caramel's sweet-and-salty charm, I'm turning to a flavor that reminds me of my childhood: peanut butter!
To make this, I'd start with one cup of my base buttercream, then I'd add a half-cup of creamy peanut butter. Taste it, and if you want an even BIGGER peanut butter punch, add another quarter-cup!
I like to use the regular kind – not the natural kind with the oil slick on top. I think the processed stuff blends better, plus, it's got that classic peanut butter flavor we all know and love.
Want to get fancy? Swirl in some peanut butter cups. However, you should chop them up first—or they will clog your piping bag! Trust me, I've seen it happen!
Cookies and Cream Buttercream
I'm fairly certain that nothing screams "party time!" quite like Cookies and Cream Buttercream. It's a total crowd-pleaser! Let's get this frosting absolutely perfect:
- Crush Time: Use about 1 1/2 cups of your favorite chocolate sandwich cookies. Don't be shy—really crush 'em!
- Buttercream Base: Get your classic buttercream ready to go—you know, the one from the beginning.
- Mix It Up: Gently fold those glorious cookie crumbs into your buttercream. Careful not to overmix, though; we want some texture!
- Taste Test: Now, the most important part: taste it! Add a pinch of salt if it's too sweet, or a splash of milk if it's too thick.
And *voilà*, a Cookies and Cream Buttercream that's gonna knock everyone's socks off! This buttercream is a winner!
Maple Buttercream
Let's switch gears, shall we, from those irresistible crushed cookies to something equally divine but with a totally different vibe–maple buttercream! It's like wrapping your cake in a cozy, autumnal hug!
Now, I reckon you'll need around 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup for a good, strong maple punch. Don't skimp–use the real deal for the best flavour.
Add it little by little to your base buttercream recipe which is in my cookbook. Don't have it yet? Grab one, I know you want to.
Taste! If the maple flavour isn't singing to your soul, consider adding a dash more. I find a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness, kinda like a maple-bacon situation, but, you know, without the bacon. Unless you're into that.
Just a heads up – adding too much liquid will make the buttercream loose; so, add small amounts to keep smooth frosting!
Brown Butter Buttercream
If you're looking to venture into something extraordinary, I'll let you in on a secret—brown butter buttercream is where it's at! It adds a nutty, toasty depth that's simply irresistible. Don't be surprised if your friends start calling you a frosting wizard!
Ready to get started? Here's how I do it:
- Brown the butter: Cook unsalted butter (about ¾ cup) in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Watch it closely!
- Cool it down: Let the brown butter cool completely—I usually pop it in the fridge.
- Whip it up: Cream the cooled brown butter with powdered sugar (3-4 cups) until smooth.
- Add a splash: A teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt can round out the flavor even more. Seriously, it's that easy, and you'll wonder why you hadn't tried it sooner!
Short Recipe Version
Buttercream Frosting Recipe (Concise)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes (for brown butter option only)
Servings: Varies depending on use
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1-2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Cream softened butter until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed.
- Add milk or cream and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- (Optional – Brown Butter): Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, swirling until golden brown and nutty aroma appears. Cool slightly before adding to recipe.
Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Sugar: 15-25g