Easy Classic Buttercream Frosting

Name: Easy Classic Buttercream Frosting
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 600 g icing sugar, sifted; 300 g unsalted or salted butter, softened; 3 tbsp boiling water; 1 dash vanilla extract; 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest; 1 tsp finely grated orange zest; 1 tbsp cocoa powder; 3 drops food colouring

A versatile and silky smooth buttercream frosting that's perfect for piping onto cupcakes or filling layer cakes. This simple recipe can be easily customized with citrus zest, cocoa, or vanilla to suit any dessert.

Servings12 Portions

Prep Time10 Mins

Cook Time0 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

icing sugar, sifted
600 g
unsalted or salted butter, softened
300 g
boiling water
3 tbsp
vanilla extract
1 dash
finely grated lemon zest
1 tsp
finely grated orange zest
1 tsp
cocoa powder
1 tbsp
food colouring
3 drops

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and pale.

Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, beating on low speed at first to avoid a sugar cloud, then increasing to medium-high until well combined.

Incorporate your chosen flavorings, such as vanilla extract, citrus zest, or cocoa powder, and add a few drops of food coloring if desired.

Add 2-3 tablespoons of boiling water, one at a time, beating continuously until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle to decorate cupcakes, or use a palette knife to spread it over a 20cm cake.

Chef's Tips

For a whiter frosting, use clear vanilla extract. If the icing is too soft, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before piping. Always sift your icing sugar to ensure a perfectly lump-free finish.