Description
A delightful buttercream frosting inspired by the nostalgic flavor of orange creamsicles, perfect for elevating any dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- Optional: 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon orange extract
- Optional: orange gel food coloring
Instructions
- Start with softened butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and lighter in color.
- Add orange zest: Incorporate the orange zest and beat for another 30 seconds, letting that citrus aroma fill your kitchen.
- Add half of the sugar: Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar. Begin on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, and then beat on medium for 30 seconds.
- Combine remaining ingredients: Add the remaining sugar, fine salt, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Again, start slow, then beat on medium-high for 2 minutes.
- Incorporate orange juice: Pour in the fresh orange juice and mix for 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to capture every bit of flavor.
- Adjust the consistency: Add additional cream 1 tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired thickness.
- Fluff it up: Beat the mixture for an additional 2 minutes to make it delightfully fluffy.
- Flavor boost (optional): If you wish, mix in the orange extract and any food coloring to enhance the visual appeal.
- Use or store: Use immediately on your favorite desserts or store in an airtight container for later.
Notes
Make-ahead options: This buttercream can be made a day ahead—just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Before use, let it sit at room temperature and re-beat to revive that fluffy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg