Name: Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked in hot water 1 hour or cool water 6-8 hours); 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk or cream; 3-4 Tbsp maple syrup; 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (adds richness and helps firm up); 1/4 tsp lemon zest; 1-2 Tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; 1/4 tsp sea salt; 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked in hot water 1 hour or cool water 6-8 hours); 2/3 cup Coconut Yogurt or Coyo Coconut Yogurt; 3-4 Tbsp maple syrup; 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (adds richness and helps firm up); 1 1/2 – 2 tsp apple cider vinegar (more for tangier frosting); 1/4 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; 1/4 tsp sea salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 8 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a luscious, dairy-free frosting that’s both creamy and versatile, you absolutely need to try the Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe. This dreamy, plant-based frosting is crafted from soaked raw cashews blended with wholesome ingredients, giving you two delightful variations that can effortlessly elevate your baked treats. Whether you’re craving a rich and subtly sweet vanilla version or a lively tangy frosting with a hint of apple cider vinegar, this recipe delivers a luxuriously smooth texture and a burst of flavor that feels like a warm, delicious hug for your desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round wooden board holds several small white bowls and cups arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a bright yellow lemon next to a metal flat grater with a dark handle. One bowl is filled with a thick white creamy substance with a textured swirl on top. A metal measuring cup contains light beige cashews. Another small bowl has dark liquid, and close to it is a tiny black spoon with coarse white salt. Two more bowls contain light clear and amber-colored liquids. The scene is simple and bright, focusing on the natural colors and textures of each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Get ready to gather some simple, natural ingredients that come together beautifully to create this irresistibly creamy frosting. Each component plays a unique role, adding to the taste, texture, and vibrant color of your final creation.

Raw cashews (1 1/2 cups): Soaked to soften and blend into a rich, smooth base that mimics traditional buttercream’s velvety feel.

Full-fat coconut milk or cream (1/2 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and natural sweetness, perfect for the classic version.
Maple syrup (3-4 Tbsp): A clean, natural sweetener that balances flavor with just the right amount of sweetness.
Melted coconut oil (1/4 cup): Brings a silky richness and helps the frosting firm up nicely when chilled.

Lemon zest (1/4 tsp): Adds a fresh, zesty brightness that lifts the flavors.
Lemon juice (1-2 Tbsp): Provides a gentle tang that complements the sweetness perfectly in the classic version.
Vanilla bean paste (1 tsp): Infuses deep, fragrant vanilla notes for extra warmth and comfort.

Sea salt (1/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Coconut yogurt or Coyo Coconut Yogurt (2/3 cup): Used in the tangy variation—brings a creamy texture and a subtle tang that transforms the frosting.
Apple cider vinegar (1 1/2 – 2 tsp): Amplifies the tanginess for those who love a more vibrant punch in their frosting.

How to Make Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe

Step 1: Soak Your Cashews

Start your frosting journey by soaking the raw cashews. You can either plunge them in very hot water for about an hour or let them soak in cool water for 6 to 8 hours. This step is crucial because it softens the cashews enough to blend into a silky smooth cream, which is the backbone of your frosting’s luscious texture.

Step 2: Blend with Love

Once your cashews are perfectly soaked and drained, toss them into a high-speed blender along with the rest of your chosen ingredients. Depending on whether you’re making the creamy classic or the tangy version, add either the coconut milk and lemon juice or the coconut yogurt and apple cider vinegar. Blend on high power, scraping the sides frequently until the mixture is as smooth and creamy as velvet. This blending process is where the magic happens, turning simple nuts and plant-based ingredients into irresistible frosting.

Step 3: Taste and Tweak

This frosting shines when it’s personalized. Take a moment to taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking. Add a touch more maple syrup if you want it sweeter, more vanilla for a richer aroma, or some extra apple cider vinegar or lemon zest if you prefer that lively tang that wakes up your taste buds.

Step 4: Chill and Whisk

Transfer your smooth frosting to a medium-sized bowl and cover it. Place it in the freezer for 45 minutes, then take it out to whisk vigorously. Repeat freezing for another 45 minutes to an hour and whisk again. This chilling process gives the frosting a wonderful semi-firm, cheesecake-like texture that makes it easier to spread or pipe. If it feels too firm, a quick 15-second microwave session or leaving it at room temperature will soften it just right.

Step 5: Ready to Frost

After these steps, your Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe is ready to adorn any dessert. It holds beautifully on cakes, cupcakes, or cookies and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to a month without losing its dreamy consistency and flavor.

Step 6: Enjoy on Your Favorite Treats

This frosting pairs beautifully with many baked goods—you’ll find it particularly stunning on cakes like Vegan Apple Gingerbread, Vegan Birthday Cake, or a Gluten-Free Zucchini Cake. It also elevates pumpkin rolls and even vegan whoopie pies to the next level. The options are endless, and your guests will be amazed by the richness and depth of flavor.

How to Serve Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe

A single round white bowl filled with a thick, smooth, creamy white spread, with swirls and soft peaks on the top surface. The bowl sits on two round wooden cutting boards, one smaller and lighter on top of a larger, darker one. To the right of the bowl, a silver spoon rests on the boards, holding a small scoop of the same creamy white spread. The background is a white marbled texture with subtle grey veins. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your frosted creations truly pop, try garnishing with finely chopped nuts, fresh fruit slices like berries or kiwi, or edible flowers. These little accents not only add visual appeal but also layer in fresh textures and complimentary flavors that make dessert time even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

Pair this frosting-topped delight with fruit compotes, a light salad of fresh berries, or a cup of herbal tea. The subtle sweetness and creaminess of the frosting balance well with fresh or tangy sides, giving you a well-rounded dessert experience that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like getting fancy? Use a piping bag to create elegant swirls or rosettes on your cakes and cupcakes. Alternatively, spread a thick, rustic layer for a cozy homemade look. For a show-stopping dessert, layer the frosting between cake tiers or add dollops atop mini cheesecakes. The texture versatility of this Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe invites you to get creative and make your desserts uniquely yours.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This frosting keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days. Its creamy texture will soften at room temperature, so simply whisk or briefly warm if needed before serving to restore its spreadability.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the frosting for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then whisk or blend gently to revive that perfect creamy texture. Freezing lets you prep ahead and have this lovely frosting ready whenever inspiration strikes.

Reheating

If your frosting becomes too firm from refrigeration or freezing, a few short bursts in the microwave (15 seconds at a time) work wonders. Alternatively, leave it at room temperature to soften naturally, then whisk before applying. This simple step ensures your frosting maintains that smooth, dreamy consistency every time.

FAQs

Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw cashews?

Raw cashews are preferred because they provide a neutral base and smoother texture. Roasted cashews can add a slightly different flavor and may not blend as smoothly, but you can experiment if you enjoy the nutty depth it creates.

Is this frosting completely vegan?

Yes! This Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe uses plant-based ingredients such as cashews, coconut milk, and vegan sweeteners, making it perfect for vegan and dairy-free diets.

Can I substitute almond milk for coconut milk?

Coconut milk adds richness and creaminess, which almond milk might lack. While you can use almond milk in a pinch, expect a thinner consistency and slightly different flavor.

How do I make the frosting thicker if it is too runny?

Chilling the frosting in the freezer as outlined is key to thickening it naturally. If it’s still too runny, adding a bit more soaked cashews or coconut oil can help to achieve the desired firmness.

Can I add food coloring to this frosting?

Absolutely! Natural food colorings from ingredients like beet juice, spirulina powder, or turmeric blend well with this frosting and can add beautiful, vibrant hues without artificial additives.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about whipping up a luscious, plant-based frosting that not only tastes incredible but also aligns with mindful eating. The Cashew Buttercream Frosting (2 Ways!) Recipe is destined to become your go-to for all occasions, whether you want classic comfort or a tangy twist. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly it transforms your desserts into real showstoppers. Happy frosting!