Description

This Lemon Buttercream Frosting is a luscious, tangy, and creamy topping perfect for cakes and cupcakes. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, smooth unsalted butter, and confectioners’ sugar, it provides a bright citrus flavor balanced with a rich buttery texture. It’s easy to whip up using a mixer and can be stored refrigerated or frozen for convenient use later.

Ingredients

Scale

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 and 1/2 cups (540g) confectioners’ sugar
2 and 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 Tablespoons heavy cream
2 teaspoons lemon zest
Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

Beat the Butter: Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, which should take about 2 minutes.
Add Ingredients: With the mixer running on low speed, gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, fresh lemon juice, heavy cream, and lemon zest to the butter.
Whip the Frosting: Increase mixer speed to high and beat the mixture for 3 full minutes until smooth and fluffy.
Adjust Consistency: Taste the frosting and add a pinch of salt as needed. If the frosting is too thin, add up to 1/2 cup more confectioners’ sugar. If too thick, add an additional tablespoon of heavy cream.
Store Properly: Cover the frosting tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Recondition Before Use: When ready to use after refrigeration or freezing, thaw in the refrigerator, bring to room temperature, and beat the frosting briefly to restore its creamy texture. Add a little milk or heavy cream if still stiff.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright citrus flavor and aroma.
For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually; for a thinner consistency, increase the heavy cream slightly.
If frosting has been frozen, always rebeat after thawing to regain smoothness.
Butter should be softened to room temperature but not melted to ensure proper creaming.
This frosting works excellently for lemon cakes, cupcakes, or as a tangy filling between layers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Frosting
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American

Keywords: lemon buttercream frosting, lemon frosting, buttercream, frosting recipe, cake frosting