Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This luscious Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting combines the tangy smoothness of cream cheese and butter with the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of homemade strawberry preserves. Perfectly creamy and slightly fruity, this frosting is ideal for cupcakes, layered cakes, or as a delightful spread. The homemade strawberry jam base adds a fresh, genuine berry taste that elevates any dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost 12 standard cupcakes or one 9-inch layered cake
- Category: Dessert Frosting
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberry Jam
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Splash of water (as needed)
Frosting
- 8 tablespoons (4 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Make Strawberry Jam: In a small saucepan, combine chopped fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and a splash of water. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring every few minutes, until the mixture reduces to about 1/4 cup and thickens to a jam-like consistency. This should take approximately 20-30 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and add more water if necessary.
- Cool Jam: Scrape the strawberry jam from the saucepan into a separate bowl and allow it to cool completely.
- Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese together until creamy and smooth.
- Add Strawberry Jam and Vanilla: Add the cooled strawberry jam and vanilla extract to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and evenly incorporated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually stream in the powdered sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until the frosting becomes creamy, smooth, and fluffy.
- Use or Store: Spread the frosting on cupcakes, layer between cakes, or transfer it to a plastic storage bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before use and beat lightly to restore texture if needed.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Cook the strawberry jam patiently to avoid burning and to deepen the flavor.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the powdered sugar amount to your taste.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, consider using a high-quality vanilla extract.
- Store any leftover frosting in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freeze unused frosting in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months.
Keywords: Strawberry frosting, cream cheese frosting, strawberry cream cheese frosting, homemade frosting, cupcake frosting, cake frosting
