The Easiest Lemon Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Course Dessert

Cuisine Baking

Keyword buttercream, lemon

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings 7 cups

1 cup butter-flavored shortening room temperature - shortening adds stability, but this can be substituted for butter if preferred.
1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
2 lbs powdered sugar or about 8 cups (sifted for best results)
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4-1/2 tsp lemon oil depending on the depth of flavor you enjoy. I like more lemon, so I do 1/2 tsp
6 oz heavy whipping cream

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and butter until fluffy.
Add sugar, one cup at a time, mixing a bit between each addition. When adding sugar, you will want to start the mixer slowly so it doesn’t explode everywhere. Continue creaming until well blended. It will be coarse in texture until adding the liquid ingredients.
Add salt, vanilla, lemon oil, and 6 ounces of whipping cream. Blend on low speed until moistened. Beat at high speed until frosting is fluffy, 1-2 minutes.
I always use the proportions described, but if you want it thicker, simply add more powdered sugar. Want it smoother? Add more whipping cream? Want a more mild lemon flavor, add less lemon oil. This recipe is easily adaptable to get just the right texture and flavor combination.

Note: I love using lemon oil, but if you don't have it on hand and don't want to buy it, you can use 3 Tbsp lemon juice and 2 1/2 tsp lemon zest.