If you have a soft spot for sweet, fruity frostings that truly burst with fresh flavor, you are going to adore this Homemade Strawberry Frosting (Strawberry Buttercream Recipe) Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of creamy richness and natural strawberry goodness, giving you that pop of pink color and unbeatable taste without any artificial syrups or extracts. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, whipping up this frosting is a delightful way to elevate cupcakes, cakes, or even cookies to something memorable and special. Get ready to experience frosting that tastes like summer in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Homemade Strawberry Frosting (Strawberry Buttercream Recipe) Recipe plays a crucial role, from the sweet tang of strawberries to the creamy smoothness of butter. These simple components work together to give you that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that stands out beautifully on any dessert.
- 1 cup (20g) freeze-dried strawberries: Adds pure strawberry flavor and vibrant pink color without extra moisture.
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened: The rich, creamy base that makes the frosting silky and smooth.
- 4 to 5 cups (480-600g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and controls its thickness to the perfect consistency.
- ¼ to ⅓ cup (60-80mL) milk or cream: Adds moisture and creaminess, helping achieve that luscious texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste: Gives a hint of warmth and depth to enhance the strawberry flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
How to Make Homemade Strawberry Frosting (Strawberry Buttercream Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Pulverize the Freeze-Dried Strawberries
Start by turning those freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Using a blender or food processor ensures that your frosting will have a smooth texture without any chunks, giving you concentrated strawberry flavor that really shines through.
Step 2: Cream the Butter
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it’s light and creamy, about 2 minutes. This step is key because it aerates the butter, creating the fluffy base that makes the frosting feel rich yet light.
Step 3: Combine Sugar and Flavorings
With the mixer on low, gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla paste, milk or cream, and salt. Keep mixing on medium speed until everything is smooth and well incorporated. This careful blending ensures no gritty sugar remains and the frosting has a velvety texture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Strawberry Powder
Mix in the strawberry powder you made earlier, beating on medium speed for about 3 minutes until fully smooth and vibrant pink. If the frosting seems too stiff, add more milk a little at a time; if it’s too runny, sprinkle in more powdered sugar until you get that ideal spreadable consistency.
How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Frosting (Strawberry Buttercream Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra on top can elevate your frosting presentation. Fresh strawberry slices, edible flowers, or even a few tiny freeze-dried strawberry pieces sprinkled delicately on the frosting bring wonderful texture contrast and visual appeal to your perfectly pink buttercream.
Side Dishes
This frosting isn’t just for cakes! Pairing it with simple vanilla cupcakes, buttery sugar cookies, or even warm cinnamon rolls creates an irresistible treat that balances sweetness and fresh fruit notes, making every bite feel like a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Try swirling this frosting on top of layered cakes or piping it in pretty rosettes on cupcakes for a professional look. You could even spread a thin layer between cake layers for a luscious surprise inside. The lovely pink hue also makes it perfect for themed parties or romantic occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra frosting, no worries! Simply transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days. Before using, let it come back to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze your homemade strawberry frosting. Pop it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and beat again until smooth and fluffy just like fresh.
Reheating
Unlike some frostings, this strawberry buttercream comes back to life beautifully at room temperature. Avoid direct heat; instead, leave it at room temperature for about an hour, then beat with a mixer to refresh its silky consistency before spreading or piping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Fresh strawberries contain a lot of moisture, which can make the frosting too runny. Freeze-dried strawberries are ideal here because they provide intense flavor without extra liquid, keeping the frosting thick and spreadable.
What if I don’t have vanilla paste?
You can substitute vanilla extract instead, but vanilla paste adds a richer flavor and tiny vanilla bean flecks that enhance the overall look and taste of the frosting.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
Try using 4 cups of powdered sugar and add a bit more salt to balance the sweetness. You can also reduce the sugar gradually while adjusting the milk to maintain a good texture.
Can I use salted butter?
It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the salt level precisely. If salted butter is all you have, omit the extra salt in the recipe and taste as you go.
How long does this frosting hold up on cakes at room temperature?
Because it contains butter and milk or cream, it’s best to keep frosted cakes in a cool place or refrigerate if serving after more than a few hours, especially in warm weather.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you take a moment soon to whip up this Homemade Strawberry Frosting (Strawberry Buttercream Recipe) Recipe. It’s a wonderful way to channel your love for strawberries into something luscious and homemade that tastes so fresh and natural. Whether you’re dressing up a birthday cake or simply craving a bright, sweet spread, this frosting will become your new favorite secret weapon for impressing your family and friends.
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Homemade Strawberry Frosting (Strawberry Buttercream Recipe) Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade strawberry frosting is a luscious, creamy strawberry buttercream made with freeze-dried strawberries, butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla. It delivers a natural, vibrant strawberry flavor perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and desserts with a smooth, velvety texture.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (20g) freeze-dried strawberries
- 4 to 5 cups (480-600g) powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¼ to ⅓ cup (60-80mL) milk or cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Powder: Using a blender or food processor, process the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Set aside this vibrant strawberry powder for incorporation into the frosting.
- Cream the Butter: In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Flavorings: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla paste, milk or cream, and salt. Once combined, increase speed to medium and blend until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Incorporate Strawberry Powder: Add the strawberry powder to the mixture and beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until fully incorporated and the frosting is smooth and consistent. Adjust the texture by adding more milk if too stiff or more powdered sugar if too thin.
Notes
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for a concentrated strawberry flavor without adding extra moisture.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- You can adjust the consistency of the frosting by varying the amount of milk or powdered sugar.
- Vanilla paste adds extra flavor but vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.
- This frosting is ideal for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert Frosting
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
