Easy 5 Minute Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
This easy 5 minute lemon cream cheese frosting is perfectly tangy and sweet thanks to using both fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. If you enjoy the flavors of a classic cream cheese frosting, you will most definitely enjoy this lemon version. All you need are 5 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep!
Servings: 12
Calories: 271kcal
Equipment
- Electric Stand Mixer
- Citrus Zester
- Piping Bag
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (brick-style, not spreadable)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In the bowl of an electric stand mixer using the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter on high speed until creamy and lump free (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract and mix on low speed until combined (about 30 seconds).
- Then increase the speed to high and beat for another 1-2 minutes (frosting should be light and creamy).
- Use it to frost your favorite cupcakes and cake recipes!
Notes
Storing: Keep the frosting stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Pull it out at least 30 minutes before you want to use it. You could also rewhip it in the stand mixer if needed.
Freezing: To freeze, place it in an airtight container to avoid any freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator over night. Then rewhip it to help stabilize it again.
Lemons: Please use fresh lemons and avoid the store-bought bottled lemon juice. Your frosting won't taste the same if you use anything but fresh lemons.
Room Temperature: The cream cheese and butter needs to be at room temperature in order to create a smooth and cream consistency. If you start with cold ingredients, you'll have a difficult time getting the frosting to come together.
Baked Desserts: Make sure any dessert you use this frosting on is completely cooled before frosting. If not, the frosting will melt right off.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 271kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 61mg | Potassium: 31mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 491IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 0.1mg
