Strawberry Buttercream Frosting Recipe

This strawberry frosting recipe is my go-to because it’s ridiculously easy to whip up and tastes like a nostalgic hug from my childhood. The combination of fresh, fruity jam and the light, fluffy texture just makes everything—from cupcakes to spoonfuls—absolutely irresistible!

I love how this Strawberry Buttercream Frosting combines the rich creaminess of 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with the perfect sweetness of 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar. The addition of 1/4 cup of strawberry preserves adds a burst of fruity flavor.

A teaspoon of vanilla extract complements the strawberry beautifully, with a pinch of salt enhancing the depth of flavor. I think it’s perfect for topping your favorite cakes and cupcakes, offering a delicious balance of taste and texture.

Ingredients

Unsalted Butter:
Creamy richness that is essential for a smooth texture.

Confectioners’ Sugar:
Provides sweetness and structure; essential for the frosting’s body.

Strawberry Preserves:
Disperses sweet fruity flavor; naturally sweet.

Heavy Cream:
Renders a smooth, silky, mouthfeel and adds moisture and richness.

Vanilla Extract:
Intensifies flavor; contributes aromatic notes.

Pinch of Salt:
Sweetness is well-balanced while overall flavor is dramatically enhanced.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 cups (480g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup (80g) strawberry preserves or jam, seedless if preferred
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium speed until creamy, about 1-2 minutes.

2. Slowly incorporate the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Mixing should commence at low speed to maintain sugar control, this then increases to a medium pace until a smooth batter is achieved.

3. Add the strawberry preserves or jam, ensuring it is seedless if preferred. Mix on medium speed until the jam is fully incorporated.

4. Add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or milk, and then the vanilla extract. Beat at medium speed, adding additional cream or milk as needed, to achieve your desired consistency.

5. To taste, add a pinch of salt, and keep beating the concoction at a medium-high velocity until the frosting achieves a light and fluffy constitution, which should occur in about 3-4 minutes’ time.

6. Sample the frosting, then make sure the texture and sweetness are to your liking. If the frosting is too thin, add more confectioners’ sugar until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add another tablespoon of heavy cream or milk until it smooths out.

7. Should the frosting taste too sweet, balance it by adding more salt.

8. After the desired texture and flavor are obtained, turn the mixer to high and beat the mixture for another minute. This step is performed to make the batter fluffier. THE “Batter” IS FLUFFIER.

9. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or your favorite pastries, or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

10. Stored frosting should be allowed to return to room temperature before using. It should be whipped for a few seconds to restore the creamy texture of the frosting.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Rubber spatula
5. Spoon (for tasting)

FAQ

• Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry preserves?Certainly, using fresh strawberries that have been pureed is an option available to you. However, if you cook them down, you will likely end up with a more consistent texture and flavor.
• What if my frosting is too thick?Slowly incorporate more heavy cream or milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you arrive at your preferred consistency.
• How can I make the frosting less sweet?Adding a tad more salt can balance the sweetness or reduce the amount of confectioners’ sugar slightly.
• Can I make this frosting in advance?Making it up to two days in advance is acceptable. Cover it well and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Take it out and let it come to room temperature before proceeding.
• What if I don’t have unsalted butter?You can use salted butter; just don’t add the pinch of salt that the recipe calls for.
• How should I store leftover frosting?Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week; if you want to save it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months.
• Can I use this frosting for cupcakes?Certainly! This strawberry buttercream harmonizes wonderfully with various cake types, more so with cake flavors such as vanilla or chocolate.

Substitutions and Variations

For unsalted butter: Use salted butter, but exclude the tiny bit of salt called for in the recipe.
To make confectioners’ sugar: Granulated sugar is blended until it becomes a fine powder.
To make preserves or jam with strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries that have been pureed and strained, or make it with raspberry jam, which will give you a similar berry flavor.
For heavy cream or milk: Substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk.
For vanilla extract: Use almond extract for a nutty variation or a few drops of strawberry extract to enhance the strawberry flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature before you start. This ensures it will cream properly, leading to a smoother texture in your frosting.

2. Incorporate Air Intentionally When beating the frosting, particularly in the last stage, ensure to beat on high speed to incorporate air, giving your frosting a light and fluffy texture.

3. Control Sweetness Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by starting with a smaller amount of confectioners’ sugar and gradually adding more after tasting. You can balance overly sweet frosting with just the right amount of salt.

4. Consistency Matters If you want a stiffer frosting for detailed piping, add more confectioners’ sugar gradually. For a softer, spreadable frosting, slowly add small amounts of cream, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

5. Flavor Variations Enhance the flavor by mixing in some finely diced fresh strawberries or a splash of lemon juice for added freshness and a little tanginess alongside the strawberry preserves.