3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Frosting
This easy 3 Ingredient Cream Cheese Frosting is smooth, tangy, and perfectly sweet—all without butter! With just cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla, you can whip up a bakery-worthy frosting in minutes.
Ingredients
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese Use full-fat block style for best results.
- 2 cups powdered sugar Sifted to ensure smooth texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Pure vanilla recommended.
Instructions
- Prep the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 20 minutes so it blends smoothly.
- Combine Ingredients: Beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully blended.
- Perfect the Texture: Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. If too runny, chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before using.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir in lemon zest, cinnamon, or almond extract.
- Always sift powdered sugar for smooth results.
- To pipe the frosting, chill for 20–30 minutes before use.
- Store frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it soften slightly and whip again before using.
- This recipe makes approximately 2 cups of frosting, enough to generously frost a 9x13-inch cake or 12-16 standard cupcakes.