Winter Frosting Vanilla Spices (Printable Format)

Creamy vanilla frosting with cinnamon and nutmeg, smooth and easy to spread for winter treats.

# What You Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened

→ Sweeteners

03 - 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

→ Flavorings & Spices

04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Liquids

07 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream, as needed

→ Salt

08 - Pinch of fine sea salt

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
02 - Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg if using, and a pinch of sea salt; mix thoroughly to combine.
03 - Slowly add sifted powdered sugar while beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
04 - Increase mixer speed to medium and beat the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
05 - Add milk or heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until desired spreading consistency is achieved.
06 - Apply immediately on cooled cakes or cupcakes, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Re-whip before use if chilled.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It spreads like silk without any grittiness—a smooth canvas for whatever winter celebration you're decorating.
  • The subtle warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg makes people ask what's different about your frosting, and you get to smile knowing you've created something a little more special than store-bought.
  • It comes together in just 10 minutes, which means you can frost a whole batch of cupcakes before anyone even realizes you're baking.
02 -
  • Softness is everything—butter and cream cheese at room temperature make the difference between frosting that whips into clouds and frosting that feels dense. Plan ahead and let them sit out for at least an hour.
  • Over-mixing after the powdered sugar is added can make your frosting grainy or cause it to break—stop as soon as it looks light and fluffy, don't keep going.
  • If your frosting is too thin, chill it for 10 minutes; if it's too thick, add more liquid one teaspoon at a time. It's easier to adjust than to start over.
03 -
  • Room temperature is non-negotiable for both butter and cream cheese—they'll incorporate smoothly and whip up lighter than cold ingredients ever could.
  • Sift your powdered sugar directly into the bowl—it's one extra step that transforms your frosting from good to genuinely silky.

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