Ingredients
½ cup salted or unsalted butter, room temperature
8 oz full-fat brick cream cheese, room temperature
Zest of 1 small lemon (about 2 tsp)
Juice of 1 small lemon (about 2–3 tbsp)
3–4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla (optional)
Pinch of salt (omit if using salted butter)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl with a hand mixer or in the bowl of a standing mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the butter for 2-3 minutes until it is pale and creamy.
2. Add the cream cheese and mix for another 2-3 minutes until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated. It is crucial that both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until just combined.
5. If you plan on piping the frosting, chill it for 20 minutes to achieve a better consistency. Otherwise, it is ready to be used on your favorite dessert.
Notes
For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the zest or add a drop of lemon extract.
Frosting can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature and rewhip before using.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 65
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 20