Vanilla Cream Cheese frosting
Sweet & Simple: Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
The Creamy Frosting Your Holiday Desserts Deserve.
Bring a touch of old-fashioned recipe magic to your holiday baking!
This simple vanilla cream cheese frosting comes together in no time, just like Grandma used to make.
Spread it over spice cakes, sugar cookies, or gingerbread loaves for that classic creamy finish every retro kitchen swore by.
This is a versatile recipe I’ve replaced the vanilla extract with vanilla cinnamon extract, and it tastes wonderful!
Blog Index
Why you’ll love this frosting
Step by step instructions
FAQ
5 Fun Mid Century Serving Suggestions
Retro Shopping
Closing Words
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Why you’ll love this frosting
Ready in just minutes perfect for last-minute baking!
Creamy and sweet a timeless flavor combo.
Versatile: Spread, swirl, or pipe on cookies, cupcakes, or spice cakes.
Made with simple pantry staples no stress, no mess.
It pairs really well with Betty Crockers Butter Pecan Cake Mix.
Perfect for holiday treats
Quick homemade icing for cupcakes
Great for 1950s Christmas baking recipes
Vanilla Cream cheese Frosting
Era: 1950s
Cuisine: American
Vibe: Quick-Serve Holiday Classic
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes or 1 cake
✨ Ingredients
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or try vanilla cinnamon extract for a festive twist!)
4 cups powdered sugar
Pinch of salt (optional)
🥣 Instructions
Use a medium sized bowl.
With an electric mixer beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Mix in vanilla extract.
Gradually add powdered sugar until fluffy and spreadable.
Chill 10–15 minutes for a thicker consistency (optional).
Frost and enjoy!
FAQ + Fun serving Suggestions
FAQ – Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip for that fluffy texture.
Can I freeze cream cheese frosting?
Yes! Freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then mix well before using.
What desserts does this frosting pair well with?
It’s perfect for holiday sugar cookies, spice cakes, red velvet cupcakes, or even cinnamon rolls. It’s a true vintage staple that adds homemade charm to any dessert.
Can I change the flavor?
You sure can! Try swapping the vanilla extract for vanilla cinnamon, almond, or even peppermint extract during the holidays for a fun twist.
Why is my frosting too soft?
If it feels a little runny, add more powdered sugar a few tablespoons at a time, or pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm it up.
Can I color the frosting?
Yes! Use a few drops of gel food coloring for festive flair think mint green, blush pink, or frosty white for that classic mid-century holiday look.
🧁 5 Fun Mid-Century Ways to Serve It
1. Frosted Spice Cake Squares
Cut a spiced sheet cake into neat squares, spread each with a thick layer of frosting, and top with a pecan or cinnamon dusting. It’s pure 1950s church social charm!
2. Classic Cupcake Tower
Pipe swirls on yellow or red velvet cupcakes and finish with holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint. Stack on a tiered stand for a retro dessert table centerpiece.
3. Sandwich Cookie Treats
Spread frosting between gingersnaps, oatmeal cookies, or vanilla wafers for a quick cookie sandwich. Wrap in wax paper and tie with baker’s twine for a nostalgic touch.
4. Cinnamon Roll Drizzle
Warm up cinnamon rolls and drizzle with your creamy frosting just before serving. Add a pinch of nutmeg for that cozy retro diner breakfast vibe.
5. Festive Fruit Dip
Use the frosting as a sweet dip for sliced apples, pears, or strawberries—an easy 1950s entertaining trick that makes any party spread feel homemade and special.
Retro Shopping
Closing words
This classic, frosting brings all the retro charm of mid-century holiday baking right into your kitchen.
It’s the kind of recipe you’d find on a handwritten card tucked in Grandma’s recipe box simple, versatile, and made for sharing.
Whether you’re frosting cupcakes for a holiday bake sale, dressing up a spice cake for Christmas dinner, or whipping up something sweet for a cozy weekend brunch, this vintage classic adds a touch of nostalgia.
Give this vintage recipe a try and share your retro kitchen creations tag me at #VBTB so we can keep these mid-century flavors alive, one delicious bite at a time!
Vintage recipe source: Personal recipe
