
Creamy Lemon Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Bright, tangy, and irresistibly smooth, this Creamy Lemon Buttercream Frosting is a must-have for lemon lovers. It’s easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients, and its luscious lemony flavor and smooth texture pairs beautifully with cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Whether you’re using it on top of our Lemon Ricotta Cake or frosting sugar cookies, this frosting delivers just the right balance of sweetness and citrusy zing.
Equipment
- medium mixing bowl
- Electric hand or stand mixer
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened butter
- ½ tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine Butter and Lemon Zest: In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup softened butter and ½ tablespoon lemon zest. Mix well until the zest is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Cream Together: Add 3 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon lemon extract, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice to the butter mixture. Using an electric mixer (or a sturdy whisk), beat until the frosting is fully combined, smooth, and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more powdered sugar for a thicker frosting or a few drops of lemon juice for a thinner texture.
Notes
Tips for Success
Softening the Butter: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted for the creamiest texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add a little more lemon zest or a drop of lemon extract. Perfect Pairing: This frosting is made to go with our Lemon Ricotta Cake and other lemon-flavored desserts but also complements vanilla or berry cakes beautifully.
Softening the Butter: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted for the creamiest texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add a little more lemon zest or a drop of lemon extract. Perfect Pairing: This frosting is made to go with our Lemon Ricotta Cake and other lemon-flavored desserts but also complements vanilla or berry cakes beautifully.





