Description
This Coffee Buttercream Frosting is a rich and creamy topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Combining the bold flavor of instant coffee with a smooth, fluffy buttercream, it delivers a delightful coffee-infused sweetness that complements a variety of baked goods.
Ingredients
Buttercream Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (see notes for using salted butter)
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- ⅛ tsp salt (omit if using salted butter)
Coffee Mixture
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon boiling water
Liquid
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy whipping cream (up to ¼ cup if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare Coffee Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder with 1 tablespoon of boiling water. Stir well until the coffee dissolves completely to form a strong coffee concentrate.
- Cream the Butter: Using a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer, beat 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter on medium-high speed for 3 to 5 minutes. Continue mixing until the butter is very light, fluffy, and pale yellow in color.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add 3 to 4 cups of powdered sugar. Beat slowly until the mixture starts to combine and becomes crumbly, about 30 to 60 seconds. Then increase the speed to medium or medium-high and mix for another 3 to 4 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Coffee Mixture and Salt: Add the prepared coffee mixture along with ⅛ teaspoon of salt (skip salt if using salted butter). Mix on medium speed until all ingredients are well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy whipping cream one tablespoon at a time. Mix until you reach the desired spreading or piping consistency. You may use up to ¼ cup of liquid depending on preference.
- Serve and Enjoy: Use this coffee buttercream to frost your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or desserts. Enjoy the smooth, creamy coffee flavor in every bite!
Notes
- If using salted butter, omit the added salt to avoid over-salting.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your preferred sweetness and consistency.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the instant coffee powder slightly.
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature to ensure easy creaming and smooth frosting.
- This frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before use.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
