Food & Cooking Recipes Dessert & Treats Recipes Simple Vanilla Frosting 3.1 (174) 4 Reviews By Martha Stewart Test Kitchen Martha Stewart Test Kitchen The recipes developed by our test kitchen team have undergone a rigorous process of development and testing, ensuring that every element is optimal, from ingredient amounts to method and cooking time. This process includes triple-testing recipes to ensure they meet our high standards. The many stellar cooks and food editors who have been part of our team include Sarah Carey, Lucinda Scala Quinn, Jennifer Aaronson, Shira Bocar, Anna Kovel, Greg Lofts, Riley Wofford, Lauren Tyrell, and Lindsay Leopold. Editorial Guidelines Updated on October 28, 2022 Print Rate It Share Share Tweet Pin Email Yield: Makes 4 1/2 cups Our simple frosting recipe is made with just four basic ingredients: unsalted butter, confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. This basic buttercream is one of the most simple frostings you can whip up—and it elevates cakes and cupcakes alike. Try it on top of these chocolate chip cookie cupcakes (you won't regret it!). Ingredients 4 ½ sticks room-temperature unsalted butter 6 ¾ cups confectioners' sugar 1 tablespoon plus 1 ½ teaspoons whole milk 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Directions Beat butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar with a mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy. Reduce speed to medium-low; gradually add an additional 5 1/4 cups sugar. Raise speed to medium-high. Add milk and vanilla. Continue to beat until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Store at room temperature until ready to use (up to 2 days). Johnny Miller Rate it Print