Buttercream frosting is a beloved topping for cakes and cupcakes. However, it often craves an upgrade.
Where plain buttercream might be delightful, jazzing it up can transform your desserts into something extraordinary. With just a few simple tweaks, you can create flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Here’s a guide to 25 exciting ways to take your buttercream from basic to brilliant.
1. Vanilla Bean
If vanilla extract doesn’t excite you anymore, try vanilla beans instead! Scrape out the seeds from a fresh vanilla pod and mix them into your frosting.
The tiny black specks not only look pretty but they also add a more intense vanilla flavor. However, this simple tweak transforms your frosting from basic to gourmet.
2. Espresso Powder
For coffee lovers, adding espresso powder can be a game-changer. Just a teaspoon mixed into your frosting will create a delightful mocha flavor.
How about topping a chocolate cake with espresso-infused buttercream? Now that’s a treat! This rich combination will surely captivate and enchant every coffee aficionado.
3. Citrus Zest
Citrus zest can bring an unexpected burst of freshness. Whether it’s lemon, lime, or orange, the zest adds a lively zing to your frosting.
People who relish a tangy touch will adore this upgrade. Simply grate the outer peel and mix it in. How refreshing! This little addition brightens the flavor.
4. Berry Puree
Where plain frosting falls flat, berry puree can add a fruity punch. Blend fresh or frozen berries into a smooth puree.
Stir it into your buttercream for a colorful and flavorful twist. Imagine a strawberry or raspberry swirl atop your cupcakes. A true berry lover’s delight!
5. Maple Syrup
Have you ever considered adding maple syrup to your frosting? This sweet, woody syrup introduces a comforting warmth to your buttercream.
If you’re topping pumpkin or carrot cakes, maple-infused frosting is a match made in heaven. Stir in a few tablespoons, and you’ll achieve a delightful balance of sweetness and flavor.
6. Salted Caramel
Who can resist salted caramel? Swirl some caramel sauce into your frosting for a luxurious touch. Then, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt to heighten the flavor.
This upgrade creates a decadent and sophisticated profile, perfect for special occasions. Moreover, pairing caramel with buttercream will be leaving your guests craving more.
7. Almond Extract
Though vanilla extract is classic, almond extract offers a delightful alternative. Just a drop or two will impart a subtle yet distinct nutty flavor. How about using this on a cherry or chocolate cake?
The combination is simply divine! For nut enthusiasts, this simple addition brings a rich and aromatic element to your frosting.
8. Lavender Infusion
Lavender in frosting? Why not! Steep dried lavender flowers in cream before incorporating it into your frosting.
Though it may sound unusual, the result is a delicate floral note that’s both calming and unique. Imagine this on a vanilla cupcake. It’s like a garden party in your mouth!
9. Matcha Powder
However, if you’re looking for something trendy, why not try matcha powder? This finely ground green tea offers an earthy and subtly sweet flavor.
Mix a little into your buttercream for a stunning green hue. Matcha lovers will appreciate the unique twist.
10. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter lovers rejoice! Adding a dollop to your frosting can create a rich, nutty delight. How about slathering this on a banana cake?
The combination is reminiscent of a classic sandwich, but as a dessert! This frosting will leave you tempted to eat it straight from the bowl.
11. Chocolate Ganache
Melted chocolate ganache swirled into buttercream results in a decadent chocolate frosting. Imagine the lusciousness!
For chocoholics, this transformation is irresistible. It’s perfect on a vanilla or chocolate cake for that double-chocolate effect. Additionally, it creates a silky-smooth texture that’s simply heavenly.
12. Mint Extract
If you crave cool flavors, mint extract will refresh your frosting. Just a few drops create a lively and invigorating taste.
Perfect for chocolate cakes, this combo is reminiscent of classic mint chocolate chip. A refreshing surprise! Additionally, garnishing with a sprig of fresh mint enhances both flavor and presentation.
13. Spiced Rum
Where ordinary frosting lacks excitement, spiced rum adds flair and warmth. Stir in a teaspoon for a subtle kick. How thrilling!
The spiced notes pair beautifully with tropical cakes, like pineapple or coconut. This spirited upgrade offers an adventurous twist and can turn any dessert into a festive celebration.
14. Cocoa Powder
However, when chocolate cravings hit, cocoa powder is your friend. Mix it into your buttercream for an instant chocolate transformation.
It’s for those who find pure chocolate too intense but still want that rich cocoa flavor. Alternatively, it pairs wonderfully with vanilla or red velvet cakes.
15. Rose Water
For an exotic twist, consider rose water. Just a few drops impart a fragrant floral note that’s both romantic and unique.
An ideal match for Middle Eastern-inspired desserts. Not only does it add elegance, but it also creates a sensory delight that transports you to a blooming garden.
16. Pumpkin Spice
Pumpkin spice isn’t just for lattes! Stir a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into your frosting.
It evokes the coziness of autumn in every bite. Ideal for pumpkin or carrot cakes, this spiced upgrade is a fall favorite. The aromatic spices create a warming sensation.
17. Coconut Milk
Substitute some of the butter with coconut milk for a tropical flair. This creamy alternative adds a subtle coconut essence that pairs beautifully with lime or pineapple cakes.
The light and refreshing taste transports you to a sandy beach. It’s a dairy-free option.
18. Hazelnut Spread
Hazelnut spread in frosting? Absolutely! For fans of chocolate and nuts, this is a dream come true.
Simply fold in a generous spoonful for a creamy and indulgent treat. Amazing for chocolate cakes! This combination is reminiscent of popular chocolate-hazelnut spreads.
19. Ginger Juice
For a zingy twist, try ginger juice. Grate fresh ginger and squeeze out the juice to mix into your frosting.
Though a small amount packs a punch, it adds a refreshing warmth. Ideal for spice cakes or gingerbread, this upgrade awakens the senses. How invigorating!
20. Brown Butter
How about browning your butter before making the frosting? This technique infuses a nutty, rich flavor that’s uniquely delightful.
You can use it for vanilla or banana cakes. It offers a gourmet touch. The caramelized notes create a depth of flavor that elevates your baking game to a whole new level.
21. Orange Blossom Water
For a floral and citrusy touch, orange blossom water is your answer. Just a splash can transform your frosting into an aromatic delight.
Wonderful for spring cakes or Middle Eastern desserts. This fragrant upgrade not only enhances flavor but also adds a sophisticated charm. Y
22. Cardamom
Where ordinary spices fall short, cardamom steps in with its unique, aromatic profile. A pinch of ground cardamom adds warmth and complexity.
Good option with chai or spiced cakes. This fragrant addition creates a taste experience that’s both exotic and comforting.
23. Amaretto
Amaretto introduces a luscious almond flavor with just a dash. If you adore nutty desserts, this is your golden ticket.
Ideal for chocolate or cherry cakes, the combination is divine. It brings a smooth and silky texture with a hint of warmth.
24. Chai Spices
For spice lovers, chai spices offer a warm, cozy flavor. Blend a mixture of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves into your frosting.
Where there’s a need for comfort, this blend steps in. Perfect for winter cakes, especially spiced or chocolate ones. How soothing!
25. Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese in frosting? Yes, please! This creamy addition offers a subtle tang and richness.
Use it for Italian-inspired desserts, like cannoli or lemon cakes. The incorporation of ricotta elevates the texture. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight your taste buds!