jar of cream cheese icing and frosting piping bag

Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe: Easy and Homemade

This Cream cheese frosting recipe is my go-to for just about everything—carrot cake, red velvet cake, cinnamon rolls, pumpkin bars, cupcakes, and more! It’s perfectly creamy, just the right amount of sweet, and so easy to make. Whether you’re frosting a cake or just swiping a spoonful (no judgment here!), this recipe is a must-have in your baking arsenal.

a cup of cream cheese frosting on a white plate

A Quick History of Cream Cheese Frosting

It may be hard to pinpoint the exact origins of cream cheese frosting, but its history is closely tied to the invention of cream cheese itself. In 1872, William Lawrence, a dairyman from New York, accidentally created modern cream cheese while trying to recreate a French-style soft cheese. He soon began mass-producing and selling it under the brand Philadelphia Cream Cheese, which made its way into American kitchens and, eventually, into frostings.

While traditional frostings were made with butter and sugar, the addition of cream cheese created a tangy, rich, and smooth alternative that paired perfectly with spiced cakes. Cream cheese frosting likely emerged in the mid-20th century, when commercial cream cheese became widely available. It became especially popular with carrot cake and red velvet cake in the 1960s and 1970s—carrot cake’s warm spices balanced beautifully with the slight tanginess of the frosting. While red velvet cake, which was originally paired with ermine frosting, transitioned to cream cheese frosting thanks to its decadent texture and complementary flavor.

Today, cream cheese frosting is a staple for cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, banana bread, and even cookies, making it a versatile favorite in both home and professional baking! Many people consider it the best frosting ever!


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a cup of cream cheese icing on a white plate with a tea towel under it

Tips For Making Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Cold cream cheese and butter won’t mix smoothly and can leave lumps in your frosting. Let them soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before beating them together.
  2. Don’t Overbeat – Overmixing can make the frosting too soft and runny. Beat just until smooth and fluffy to keep it thick and spreadable. If it gets too thin, pop it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
  3. Sift the Powdered Sugar – This prevents lumps and gives you an ultra-smooth, creamy texture. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in achieving that perfect consistency!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

  • Perfectly Smooth & Creamy – No lumps, no grit—just silky, spreadable frosting that melts in your mouth.
  • Not Overly Sweet – The balance of tangy cream cheese and just the right amount of powdered sugar makes this frosting rich without being too sweet.
  • Versatile for Any Dessert – Whether you’re frosting carrot cake, red velvet cake, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, or even cookies, this recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
  • Quick & Easy to Make – With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a homemade frosting that tastes way better than store-bought!

What Equipment is Needed for this Recipe

To make this the best cream cheese frosting recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

  1. Electric Mixer – A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer makes it easy to beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
    • A whisk attachment is optional but helps incorporate more air for a lighter cream cheese frosting.
  2. Mixing Bowl – A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients.
  3. Spatula –A spatula helps for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
  4. Measuring Cups & Spoons – To accurately measure the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and any optional add-ins.
  5. Sifter (Optional) – Sifting the powdered sugar helps create an extra smooth frosting, but this step is optional.

That’s it! With just a few basic tools, you’ll have perfectly creamy and delicious cream cheese frosting in no time.

a flat lay photo with ingredients needed for cream cheese frosting, cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar and vanilla extract

Ingredients for Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

Getting the right ingredients is key to making a smooth, flavorful, and perfectly balanced cream cheese frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Cream Cheese – Use full-fat cream cheese (brick-style) for the best texture and flavor.
    • Avoid spreadable cream cheese from tubs, as it has added stabilizers that can make your frosting too soft and runny.
    • Let it come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth consistency.
  • Powdered Sugar – Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this dissolves easily, creating a silky-smooth frosting.
    • For extra smoothness, consider sifting it before adding it to the mixture.
    • The amount can be adjusted depending on how sweet you like your frosting.
  • Butter – Most bakers recommend unsalted butter, but I prefer salted butter for a subtle balance to the sweetness.
    • If using unsalted, you can add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
    • Let the butter soften to room temperature before mixing to help it blend smoothly.
  • Vanilla Extract – A touch of pure vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the frosting.
    • For a stronger vanilla flavor, you can use vanilla bean paste or add a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.

With these four simple ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, perfectly balanced cream cheese frosting that’s great for cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, and more!

step by step photo instructions of how to make cream cheese icing

Overview of Instructions For Cream Cheese Icing

Follow the Recipe Card for full instructions

  1. Beat the Cream Cheese & Butter – In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the room temperature butter and room temperature cream cheese.
    • Use a hand held mixer or a stand mixer and beat together until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
    • Make sure that the butter and cream cheese are smooth at this point.
  2. Gradually Add the Powdered Sugar – Slowly add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Once combined, increase to medium speed and beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
  3. Add the Vanilla Extract – Mix in vanilla extract (or any other flavoring, like almond extract) and blend until fully incorporated.
  4. Adjust Consistency (If Needed) – If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, chill it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
  5. Use Immediately or Store – Spread onto cakes, cupcakes, or cinnamon rolls right away, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using if it firms up too much.

Enjoy your perfectly creamy and delicious cream cheese frosting!

How Much Cream Cheese Frosting Does This Recipe Make?

This smooth cream cheese frosting recipe makes about 2 1/4 cups of frosting which is enough for:

  • 12–15 cupcakes (piped generously with a piping bag and large tip) or up to 24 cupcakes with a thin layer
  • One 9×13-inch sheet cake with a moderate layer of frosting
  • A two-layer 9-inch cake with a thin coating (you may need more for thicker layers or decorating)

If you want a thicker frosting layer for a layer cake, I’d recommend doubling the recipe for best coverage. If you have too much extra, just eat it by the spoonful or spread it on graham crackers.

a cup of light yellow cream cheese frosting

Easy Frosting Flavor Variations

  • Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting – Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Cream Cheese Chocolate Frosting – Mix in ¼ cup cocoa powder with the powdered sugar for a rich, chocolatey twist.
    • Or add 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate, melted and cooled, and mix it in with the cream cheese and butter mixture for a chocolate cream cheese frosting.
  • Maple Cream Cheese Frosting – Add ¼ cup pure maple syrup to the cream cheese and butter mixture. Then increase the powdered sugar by 1/4 – 1/2 cup more powdered sugar for a cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
  • Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting – Add 1–2 teaspoons of lemon zest or lemon juice for a bright, tangy kick.
  • Almond Cream Cheese Frosting – Replace half the vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor.

More Recipes To Try

a sheet pan with gluten free pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting arranged on a pan

This is our favorite frosting for topping my Gluten Free Pumpkin Bars Recipe.

double round gluten free carrot cake with cream cheese frosting on a glass cake stand and a piece on the table

And try it with my Gluten Free Carrot Cake!

delicious gluten free gooey butter cookies held in a hand.

If you are a fan of these flavors, butter, cream cheese and powdered sugar, you have got to try my Gluten Free Gooey Butter Cookies!


Top FAQs for Cream Cheese Frosting

Why is my cream cheese frosting too runny?

This usually happens if the cream cheese was too soft or if it was over mixed. To fix it, refrigerate the frosting for 15–20 minutes before using. You can also add more powdered sugar to thicken it, but be careful not to make it too sweet.

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before using, and give it a quick mix to restore its creamy texture.

Can I freeze cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight, then mix well before spreading.

Why is my frosting lumpy?

Lumps happen if the cream cheese or butter is too cold when mixing. To prevent this, make sure both are fully softened to room temperature before beating. It could also be an issue from the powdered sugar not being sifted first.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Violife) and vegan butter for a plant-based version. The texture might be slightly softer, so chill it before frosting your cake.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

Try using less powdered sugar (though this will make it softer). You can also balance the sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice.

Can I pipe this frosting onto cupcakes?

Yes, but because cream cheese frosting is softer than buttercream, it holds its shape best if chilled first.  Use a large piping tip for best results because it is a thicker frosting.

What cakes pair best with cream cheese frosting?

This frosting is perfect for carrot cake, red velvet cake, cinnamon rolls, banana bread, pumpkin bars, and even chocolate cake!

a stainless steel bowl with cream cheese frosting and a spatula

Thank You for Reading

As a stay-at-home mom, your support means the world to me! I hope you love this recipe as much as we do. If you try it, let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest, share it with a friend, or leave a review to help others discover it. And if you’re on Instagram, tag me @joanna_overly so I can see your delicious creations. Your support helps me continue creating new recipes—thank you so much!

close up shot of cream cheese frosting piped into a cup

Easy Cream Cheese Frosting

Joanna
This easy cream cheese frosting is smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet with a hint of vanilla. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for frosting cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, pumpkin bars and more!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 3.5 tablespoons
Calories 136 kcal

Equipment

  • Electric Mixer A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer. Whisk attachment optional but makes it even lighter.
  • Mixing bowl Medium to Large
  • Spatula
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Sifter (Optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Block Cream Cheese 8 ounces, softened at room temperature
  • 1/2 Cup Butter 1 stick, softened at room temperature
  • 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions
 

  • Beat the Cream Cheese & Butter 1 Block Cream Cheese 1/2 Cup Butter In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
  • Gradually Add the Powdered Sugar2 Cups Powdered Sugar Slowly add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud.
  • Optional: Sift the powdered sugar to create an ultra-smooth consistency, lump free frosting.
  • Once all powdered sugar is in the bowl, increase the mixer to medium speed until all the powdered sugar is fully combined. Don't over mix it though, it will be runny.
  • Add the Vanilla Extract1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract Mix in vanilla extract (or any other flavoring) and blend until fully incorporated. About 30 seconds.
  • Adjust Consistency (If Needed) – If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thin, chill it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
  • Use Immediately or Store – Spread onto cakes, cupcakes, or cinnamon rolls right away, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using if it firms up too much.

Notes

See full post for FAQ and Flavor Variations
This smooth cream cheese frosting recipe makes about 2 1/4 cups of frosting which is enough for:
  • 12–15 cupcakes (piped generously) or up to 24 cupcakes with a thin layer
  • One 9×13-inch sheet cake with a moderate layer of frosting
  • A two-layer 9-inch cake with a thin coating (you may need more for thicker layers or decorating)
If you want a thicker frosting layer for a layer cake, I’d recommend doubling the recipe for best coverage.

Nutrition

Calories: 136kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 0.1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 37mgPotassium: 3mgSugar: 24gVitamin A: 143IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 0.02mg
Keyword Frosting
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