Description
This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfectly smooth and creamy topping combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese. It’s subtly spiced and sweetened just right to complement a variety of cakes, cupcakes, and other baked treats, bringing a festive autumn touch to your desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, well softened
- 8 ounces pumpkin flavored cream cheese (about 1 cup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Beat Butter: Beat the softened unsalted butter until it turns smooth and creamy, creating a soft base for the frosting.
- Add Half Cream Cheese: Incorporate half of the pumpkin flavored cream cheese into the butter and beat until fully combined and smooth, ensuring an even texture.
- Mix Remaining Ingredients: Add the remaining cream cheese along with the vanilla extract and fine sea salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Add Powdered Sugar in Stages: Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, blending continuously to maintain smoothness. Then add another 2 cups and mix until no powderiness remains.
- Adjust Consistency: Assess the frosting’s stiffness. If it’s too soft, add additional powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time until reaching the desired thickness suitable for spreading or piping.
- Store Properly: Keep any baked goods with this frosting refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to ensure easy mixing and a smooth frosting.
- If pumpkin flavored cream cheese is unavailable, substitute with plain cream cheese and add 2-3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree along with 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to mimic the flavor.
- This frosting is best used immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and rewhip before use.
- Add powdered sugar gradually to avoid overly sweet frosting.
- Perfect for fall-themed cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
