Description
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting recipe combines the tangy richness of cream cheese and butter with the natural sweetness and vibrant color of freeze-dried strawberries. Perfectly smooth and fluffy, this frosting is ideal for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and other baked treats, adding a delightful berry flavor and a beautiful pink hue.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Base
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese (about 450 grams), softened to room temperature
- 1 cup salted butter (about 227 grams), softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- 6 cups confectioner’s powdered sugar (about 720 grams)
- 2½ cups freeze-dried strawberries (about 250 grams), ground into powder
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and ensure that the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature. This is essential for creating a smooth and fluffy frosting texture.
- Mixing Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 4 minutes.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Sugar: Add the vanilla extract to the cream cheese and butter mixture. Beat on medium speed for about one minute until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing to ensure it incorporates evenly and prevent a mess.
- Add the Strawberry Powder: Gradually fold in the freeze-dried strawberry powder using a spatula or mix on low speed until the frosting turns a beautiful pink color and the strawberry flavor is evenly distributed.
- Chill Before Piping: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the frosting for about 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the frosting, making it easier to pipe and helping it hold its shape.
- Piping and Decorating: After chilling, transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with the desired tip and decorate cakes, cupcakes, or other baked goods with beautiful swirls and designs.
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese and butter properly is key to achieving a creamy, lump-free frosting.
- Freeze-dried strawberries must be finely ground into powder for even color and flavor distribution.
- Refrigerate the frosting to firm it up before decorating to ensure clean piping and sculpted decorations.
- If you prefer a sweeter frosting, adjust the powdered sugar quantity slightly to taste.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
