Ingredients
Rich Cashew Buttercream Frosting
- 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
Tangy Cashew Buttercream Frosting
- 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
Instructions
- Soak Cashews: Soak the raw cashews in very hot water for 1 hour or in cool water for 6 to 8 hours to soften them for blending. Drain thoroughly before use.
- Blend Ingredients: Add the soaked cashews and the rest of the ingredients (depending on the frosting variation you choose) into a high-speed blender. Blend on high until the mixture is creamy, smooth, and silky, scraping down the sides as needed for even consistency.
- Adjust Flavors: Taste the frosting and adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup, or enhance flavor with extra vanilla, lemon zest, or apple cider vinegar if making the tangy version.
- Chill and Whisk: Transfer the frosting into a medium mixing bowl, cover it, and freeze for 45 minutes. Remove and whisk to mix. Repeat this freezing and whisking process for another 45 minutes to 1 hour to achieve a creamy texture.
- Firm the Frosting: Continue freezing the frosting until it feels semi-firm and cheesecake-like (approximately 2 to 4 hours). When ready to use, whip with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, soften by microwaving in 15-second intervals or letting sit at room temperature before mixing.
- Use and Store: Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days or freeze up to 1 month. Keep frosted cakes refrigerated for best texture, but they can be left out for several hours when serving.
- Serving Suggestions: This cashew buttercream frosting pairs beautifully with Vegan Apple Gingerbread Cake, Vegan Birthday Cake, Gluten-Free Zucchini Cake, Pumpkin Cake, Pumpkin Roll, or Vegan Whoopie Pies.
Notes
- Soaking cashews is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy frosting texture.
- Use a high-speed blender for best results in achieving a silky frosting.
- Adjust the sweetness and tanginess according to your taste preferences.
- If frosting becomes too firm, soften briefly in the microwave or at room temperature before mixing.
- Store the frosting in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- This frosting is vegan and gluten-free, suitable for allergy-friendly baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time of 1 hour or 6-8 hours)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan