Description
This Coffee Buttercream Frosting is a rich and creamy topping made with smooth unsalted butter, sweet powdered sugar, and aromatic instant coffee. Perfectly balanced with vanilla extract and heavy cream to create a light, fluffy texture that enhances cakes, cupcakes, and cookies with a delightful coffee flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
Instructions
- Dissolve Coffee: Dissolve the instant coffee granules in 1 tablespoon of hot water. Set aside to cool slightly, allowing the coffee to fully bloom and integrate flavor.
- Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes, to ensure a fluffy base.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until each addition is fully incorporated to avoid a sugar cloud and ensure smoothness.
- Add Coffee & Vanilla: Pour in the dissolved coffee and vanilla extract, continuing to mix on medium speed until well combined, integrating the coffee aroma throughout the frosting.
- Add Cream and Beat: Add the heavy cream (or milk), then increase the mixer speed to medium-high. Beat for 3-4 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, one teaspoon at a time, beating well after each addition until a smooth consistency is reached. If too thin, add additional powdered sugar incrementally.
- Use or Store: Use the frosting immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Alternatively, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before use, bring to room temperature and re-whip if necessary.
Notes
- Ensure butter is fully softened for easiest mixing and smooth frosting texture.
- Sifting powdered sugar prevents lumps and creates a silky frosting.
- Adjust coffee amount to taste depending on desired coffee intensity.
- Heavy cream creates richer, fluffier frosting; milk can be used for a lighter version.
- Store leftover frosting in a sealed container in the fridge; allow it to soften before reusing.
- This frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, or coffee cakes.
