Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Transform your desserts with this luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, combining the tangy richness of cream cheese with vibrant strawberry flavor. It’s the ultimate topping for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Burst of Flavor: Real strawberries deliver a fresh, fruity taste.
  • Creamy and Smooth: Perfect for spreading or piping onto baked goods.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal effort.
  • Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and strawberry flavor to your liking.
  • Pairs Well with Everything: Complements a variety of desserts, from chocolate cakes to lemon cupcakes.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely ground
  • 2–3 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree (optional for extra flavor)

Directions

  1. Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while mixing on low speed. Continue beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
  3. Incorporate Strawberry Flavor: Mix in the ground freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla extract. Beat the frosting on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
  4. Optional Puree: For extra strawberry flavor, add 1–2 tablespoons of fresh strawberry puree. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
  5. Frost Your Desserts: Spread or pipe the frosting onto cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Enjoy immediately or store for later use.
A bowl of Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting topped with a fresh strawberry slice.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: Frosts 12 cupcakes or a small 2-layer cake
  • Calories per Serving: ~120 (per 2 tablespoons)

Variations

  • Strawberry Swirl: Fold in a swirl of fresh strawberry puree for a marbled effect.
  • Citrus Kick: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a tangy twist.
  • Vegan Alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes for a vegan-friendly option.
  • Chocolate Pairing: Add 1–2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate-strawberry fusion.
  • Extra Creamy: Increase the amount of cream cheese for a tangier, creamier frosting.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and re-whip before using.
  • Reheating: Allow chilled frosting to come to room temperature, then beat lightly to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Yes, but fresh strawberries add moisture. Use sparingly to avoid a runny consistency.

2. How do I grind freeze-dried strawberries?

Use a food processor or spice grinder to create a fine powder.

3. Is this frosting pipeable?

Absolutely! This frosting is stable enough for piping decorations or designs.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, store the frosting in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before using.

5. Can I skip the strawberry puree?

Yes, the freeze-dried strawberries alone provide a concentrated strawberry flavor.

6. What desserts pair best with this frosting?

This frosting pairs beautifully with vanilla cakes, chocolate cupcakes, or even lemon-flavored baked goods.

7. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, reduce or increase the powdered sugar to achieve your desired level of sweetness.

8. Why is my frosting too runny?

The cream cheese or butter may have been too warm. Chill the frosting for 15 minutes, then re-whip.

9. Can I add food coloring for a brighter pink?

Yes, add a drop or two of pink food coloring for a more vibrant appearance.

10. How long can frosted desserts sit out?

Frosted desserts can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours but should be refrigerated if left longer.

Conclusion

This strawberry cream cheese frosting is a show-stopper that elevates any dessert with its creamy texture and natural strawberry flavor. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly versatile, making it a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Try it today and bring a touch of fruity delight to your baking creations!

Print
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A spoonful of creamy Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting with bits of fresh strawberries.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe


  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Whip up the perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe—creamy, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Ideal for cakes and cupcakes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely ground
  • 23 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

  • Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
  • Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while mixing on low speed. Continue beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
  • Incorporate Strawberry Flavor: Mix in the ground freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla extract. Beat the frosting on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
  • Optional Puree: For extra strawberry flavor, add 1–2 tablespoons of fresh strawberry puree. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
  • Frost Your Desserts: Spread or pipe the frosting onto cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Enjoy immediately or store for later use.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe