Fluffy, Creamy, Perfect Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
This Chocolate Buttercream Frosting is everything you want in a homemade frosting—rich, airy, and smooth. With simple ingredients and no fancy equipment needed, it’s the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or even spoonfuls straight from the bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder dark cocoa optional for intense flavor
- 4 –5 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt optional, but recommended
Instructions
- Place softened butter in a large mixing bowl and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until creamy and pale.
- Sift in the cocoa powder and mix on low speed until fully blended and smooth.
- Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low after each addition until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Add 4 tablespoons of milk (or cream) and the vanilla extract, then beat on medium-high for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add an extra tablespoon of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- If desired, add the salt to balance sweetness, then beat again for 30 seconds.
Notes
- Sift cocoa powder to prevent lumps and ensure a silky texture.
- For a deeper flavor, use dark cocoa or add a splash of espresso.
- To fix thick frosting, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Too soft? Chill for 10 minutes, then re-whip.
- Stores well: Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months. Thaw and re-whip before using.
- Ideal for cupcakes, cakes, cookies, or sandwich fillings.