thick butter icing recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best thick butter icing recipe

I have been making this thick butter icing recipe for years, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. It’s a classic American dessert topping that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the butter, which gives the icing its rich and creamy texture.

I like to use unsalted butter for this recipe, as it has a milder flavor than salted butter and doesn’t affect the overall taste of the icing. I also like to use pure vanilla extract for added flavor and a hint of sweetness. When it comes to making this icing, I always make sure to have all the ingredients at room temperature before starting.

This ensures that the butter and sugar mix smoothly and evenly, giving the icing a smooth and creamy texture. I also like to use a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until they become light and fluffy. This helps to incorporate air into the mixture, which gives the icing its light and airy texture.

Once I have the butter and sugar mixed together, I add in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Finally, I add in the powdered sugar and mix until smooth and creamy. This thick butter icing recipe is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or even cookies.

It’s also a great addition to fruit or cream-filled pastries. And as an added bonus, this icing is relatively healthy compared to other dessert toppings, as it’s made with just a few simple ingredients: butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. I’ve served this icing at countless family gatherings and parties over the years, and it’s always been a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Thick Butter Icing

4.6 from 1250 votes

A rich and creamy butter icing perfect for cakes and cupcakes. This recipe yields a thick and smooth icing that is easy to spread and decorate with.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3-4 tbsp milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature.
2It should be soft enough to easily make an indentation with your finger, but not melted.
3Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl.
4Add the powdered sugar to the mixing bowl with the butter.
5Begin mixing on low speed using an electric mixer.
6Gradually increase the speed to medium as the mixture combines.
7The mixture will be thick and crumbly at first, but will begin to come together as you continue to mix.
8The mixture is ready when it is smooth and well combined, with no lumps of powdered sugar remaining.
9Add the vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of milk to the butter and sugar mixture.
10Continue to mix on medium speed.
11The icing will become lighter in color and will begin to thicken.
12If the icing is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk.
13If the icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
14The icing is ready when it is smooth and spreadable, holding its shape when you lift the spatula from the bowl.
15Use the icing immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
16Before using, allow the icing to come to room temperature and mix well to ensure a smooth consistency.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a chocolate butter icing, add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the powdered sugar before mixing. For a tangy flavor, substitute the milk with an equal amount of buttermilk.

This thick butter icing recipe is a classic for any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or even a simple weekday treat.

The rich, creamy texture and sweet, buttery flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. I always make sure to have the ingredients on hand so I can whip up a batch whenever I need it.

This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to involve kids in the kitchen. It’s a fun and educational experience for them, and it helps them develop important cooking skills.

It’s always a good idea to have this recipe in your arsenal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Thick Butter Icing

Q: What type of butter should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using unsalted butter for its milder flavor that won’t affect the overall taste of the icing.

Q: Can I substitute other types of sugar for the powdered sugar?

A: While you can substitute other types of sugar for the powdered sugar in a pinch, keep in mind that using granulated sugar will give your icing a slightly different texture and flavor.

Q: How long does this icing stay fresh?

A: This icing stays fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I make this icing ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this icing ahead of time by preparing all the ingredients except for adding in the powdered sugar.

Q: What is the best way to store leftover icing?

A: To store leftover icing, simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature or in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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