Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is a luscious, fruity topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more. It combines the tang of cream cheese with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a rich and flavorful frosting that pipes beautifully and adds a gorgeous pink hue to any dessert. Whether for a birthday cake or a summer treat, this frosting is both visually stunning and deliciously indulgent.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheesebutterpowdered sugarvanilla extractfresh or freeze-dried strawberries (for flavor and color)lemon juice (optional, to enhance strawberry flavor)
directions
In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries or pulse freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing on low to avoid spillage, then increasing speed until fully incorporated.
Add the strawberry puree or powder and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and uniformly pink.
If desired, add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Chill the frosting slightly if it’s too soft for piping or spreading.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields enough frosting for about 24 cupcakes or a two-layer 8-inch cake.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes
Variations
Use strawberry jam instead of puree for a thicker, sweeter frosting.
Add a touch of pink gel food coloring for a more vibrant color if needed.
Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry twist.
Include a tablespoon of mascarpone for extra richness.
storage/reheating
Store Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip if needed to restore texture.Frosted desserts should also be refrigerated due to the cream cheese content.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before pureeing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely, it stores well in the fridge for several days.
Is this frosting good for piping?
Yes, but chilling slightly will help it hold its shape better.
Can I freeze this frosting?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and whip before using.
Why is my frosting too runny?
Too much moisture from the strawberries—try using freeze-dried strawberries or draining puree thoroughly.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, but note the texture may differ.
How can I intensify the strawberry flavor?
Use concentrated freeze-dried strawberries or add a touch of strawberry extract.
Can I use this frosting on warm cakes?
No, wait until cakes are completely cool to prevent melting.
Can I use a stand mixer or hand mixer?
Both work well—just ensure the frosting is smooth and lump-free.
Will kids like this frosting?
Yes, the fruity and creamy flavor is kid-friendly and loved by all ages.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting brings a fresh and fruity upgrade to classic desserts. Its balance of tangy and sweet flavors paired with a dreamy texture makes it a go-to choice for bakers who want both beauty and taste in their creations. Whether you’re celebrating or just treating yourself, this frosting will brighten up any dessert.
PrintStrawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Frosts 12 cupcakes or one 9-inch cake 1x
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting made with real strawberries, perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Puree the strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. If needed, strain to remove seeds.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and mix well.
- Chill slightly if the frosting is too soft before spreading or piping.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but thawed frozen strawberries can work in a pinch.
- For a thicker frosting, use less puree or add more powdered sugar.
- Store in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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