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If you’re looking for a versatile and delicious frosting that can be used on all sorts of baked goods, look no further than this easy Cream Cheese Frosting recipe. Cream cheese frosting is a classic favorite that can elevate any dessert to the next level. This fluffy frosting comes out perfect every time, with just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess.

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Below you will find tips, tricks and helpful hints for making this recipe including step by step instructions with pictures. If you would like to go directly to the recipe, scroll down to the recipe card or tap “Jump to Recipe” at the top of the page.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

This a luscious and creamy frosting is perfect for topping cupcakes, cakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls. The beauty of this frosting is that it can be easily tailored to suit your preferences.

If you prefer a sweeter frosting, simply add more powdered sugar. Or, if you want a tangier flavor, add a bit more cream cheese.

This Cream Cheese Frosting is incredibly easy to make and adds a rich and decadent touch to any dessert. Whether you’re making a carrot cake, red velvet cake, or just want to jazz up some sugar cookies, this frosting is sure to impress!

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting That Isn’t Runny

Here are a few tips to get the right frosting consistency that isn’t runny:

• Use room temperature ingredients
• Don’t over beat the cream cheese
• Use equal amounts of butter and cream cheese

Do You Have to Refrigerate Cream Cheese Frosting?

You should refrigerate cream cheese frosting for food safety because it contains dairy products. It can be left at a cool room temperature for about 8 hours but must be refrigerated after that to avoid food poisoning.

Just make sure to remove the frosting from the refrigerator about 30 minutes to 1 hour before you need it, to allow it to come to room temperature.

Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

*Ingredient amounts are located in the recipe card at the end of this post.

Softened Butter– You can use either salted or unsalted butter to make this frosting.

Softened Cream Cheese- For the best results, use a full fat block of cream cheese.

Powdered Sugar– Also known as icing sugar, this is a standard ingredient to make frosting and will give the frosting it’s structure.

Vanilla Extract- Vanilla will enhance the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting. Use clear vanilla extract to achieve a white frosting. This is available at most local grocery stores.

Milk or Heavy Cream- This is used to thin out the frosting if it is too thick.

How to Make Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

[1] Begin by placing the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer with a whisk attachment (I like Kitchenaid or Bosch) or mixing bowl and an electric mixer.

[2] Whip the butter for 1-2 minutes.

[3] Add the softened, thawed cream cheese to the bowl and beat for another minute.

[4] Mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating in between.

[5] Add the vanilla extract then whip the frosting for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.

[6] If your frosting is too thick, add milk or cream 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth texture.

[7] Serve with your favorite baked goods like cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, cakes, and cookies!

Helpful Kitchen Tools

• Stand Mixer
• Hand Mixer
• Piping Bags
• Frosting Tips
• Large Mixing Bowl

Recipes That Use Cream Cheese Frosting

• ​Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls
• Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies
• Pumpkin Cake Bars
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes

How to Store and Refrigerate Leftover Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container, covered with plastic wrap, or a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Before using, remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature.

You can also freeze cream cheese frosting in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before use.

How to Bring Cold Cream Cheese Frosting to Room Temperature

If your cream cheese frosting is too cold and thick, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir with a spoon. If it’s still too thick, you can add a couple of tablespoons of milk or heavy cream to thin it out. Give the sweet frosting a good stir until the desired consistency is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Frosting Recipes

• The Best Strawberry Frosting
• Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
• White Chocolate Frosting

Final Thoughts

The best Cream cheese frosting recipe is a classic favorite for all sorts of baked goods. It’s incredibly easy to make with a few simple ingredients and adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to any dessert.

Whether you’re looking for a topping for cupcakes, cookies, or cakes, this cream cheese frosting will never disappoint! Feel free to adjust the consistency and flavor to suit your preferences.

Other Recipes You Might Like:

• Red Velvet Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls
• Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies
• Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

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