Description
This rich and creamy Coffee Buttercream Frosting combines the smoothness of butter with the bold flavor of instant coffee, making it a perfect complement for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. With just a few simple ingredients and under 10 minutes of prep time, this frosting offers a delightful coffee twist to your baked goods.
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 and let it cool slightly to avoid melting the butter in the next steps.
- Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed with a mixer until it becomes creamy and smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. This will create a light base for the frosting.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed to fully incorporate it without creating a mess or overloading the mixer. This step ensures a smooth and well blended frosting.
- Add Coffee and Vanilla: Pour in the dissolved coffee mixture along with the vanilla extract, and continue to mix until everything is evenly combined, infusing the frosting with rich coffee flavor and sweet aromatic notes.
- Incorporate Cream: Add the heavy cream (or milk) and increase the mixer speed to medium-high. Beat the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable, perfect for decorating.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add more cream teaspoon by teaspoon until you reach the desired texture. If too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually until it’s thick enough to hold its shape.
- Use or Store: Use the coffee buttercream frosting immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Alternatively, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before use after refrigeration, bring it to room temperature and re-whip if necessary.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth frosting without lumps.
- Sifting powdered sugar prevents clumps and results in a finer texture.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, increase the instant coffee granules slightly but be cautious to maintain balance with sweetness.
- Heavy cream creates a richer frosting, but milk works as a lighter substitute.
- Frosting consistency can be adjusted to suit different types of decorations, from spreading to piping.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and re-whip before use for best texture.
