Easy Vanilla Bean Buttercream

March 24, 2010  //  102 Comments »
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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).

Vanilla Bean Buttercream

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.

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Easy Vanilla Bean Buttercream

Servings 3 cups (Enough for 24 cupcakes)
Prep 10 minutes
Total 10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Author: Michelle

An easy buttercream recipe that's made for cake!

Ingredients:

  • 2ยฝ
    sticks unsalted butter
    (softened)
  • 1
    vanilla bean
    (halved lengthwise)
  • 2ยฝ
    cups
    confectioners' sugar
    ((10 ounces))
  • Pinch
    salt
  • 1
    teaspoon
    vanilla extract
  • 2
    Tablespoons
    heavy cream
US Customary - Metric

Directions:

  1. 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. 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 Notes:

Nutritional values are based on one cup

Nutrition:

Calories: 1106kcal
Fat: 80g
Saturated fat: 50g
Cholesterol: 216mg
Sodium: 25mg
Potassium: 22mg
Carbohydrates: 100g
Sugar: 98g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 2500%
Calcium: 29%

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Leave a review below, then snap a picture and tag @thebrowneyedbaker on Instagram so I can see it!

posted in Frosting and Icing Recipes
102 Comments »