Easy Vanilla Bean Buttercream

Since posting my last couple of cakes (see Tinkerbell and Super Mario Brothers), I have received a number of comments and emails from readers asking what types of recipes, fillings and frostings I use for the cakes. It really all depends on what the person asks for, so I thought I would start by sharing one of the most raved-about fillings I use. This is the standard vanilla buttercream I use when someone requests a simple buttercream filling for a cake, and it always gets insanely rave reviews. It couldn’t be easier to make – it takes less than 10 minutes – and is absolutely delicious. Not only is it great as a filling, but if you need a frosting for cupcakes, this is perfect for both vanilla and chocolate cupcakes. Buttery, sweet, light and fluffy – everything the best buttercream should be (and maybe more).

I really love using a vanilla bean in this recipe not only because of the intense vanilla flavor that it imparts, but also because of the flecks of bean that dance through the frosting. It’s one of the reasons I love making homemade vanilla bean ice cream as well. However, I know that vanilla beans can be expensive and so if you opt not to use the vanilla bean called for in the recipe, you will want to increase the amount of vanilla extract to 1 Tablespoon. You can make this and refrigerate it for up to two weeks. When you are ready to use it, allow it to come to room temperature and then re-whip it in your stand mixer to lighten it up.

Now run off and whip up something to slather this on. Or just make a batch and eat it with a spoon. I allow, and I won’t tell.

Easy Vanilla Bean Buttercream

Yield: 3 cups (Enough for 24 cupcakes)

Prep Time:

2½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise
2½ cups confectioners’ sugar (10 ounces)
Pinch salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 Tablespoons heavy cream

1. In a standing mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the butter at medium-high speed until smooth, about 20 seconds. Using a paring knife, scrape seeds from vanilla bean into butter and beat mixture at medium-high speed to combine, about 15 seconds.

2. Add confectioners’ sugar and salt; beat at medium-low speed until most of the sugar is moistened, about 1 minute. Scrape down the bowl and beat at medium speed until mixture is fully incorporated, about 30 seconds; scrape bowl, add vanilla and heavy cream, and beat at medium speed until incorporated, about 20 seconds, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes, scraping down bowl once or twice.

(Recipe from Cook’s Illustrated)

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