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Coffee Frosting Recipe

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3.9 from 5 reviews

This rich and creamy Coffee Frosting recipe delivers a perfect balance of smooth buttery sweetness and bold coffee flavor. Made with instant coffee, heavy cream, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean paste, it’s an ideal topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Easy to make in just 15 minutes, this frosting offers a luscious texture and delightful aroma that coffee lovers will adore.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ½ tablespoons instant coffee (7 grams; Folgers classic roast recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream (45 ml)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks; 230 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups powdered sugar (420 grams)
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Coffee Mixture: Add the instant coffee and heavy cream to a small mixing bowl and stir for about 10 seconds until well combined. Set aside to ensure the coffee dissolves completely.
  2. Cream the Butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup (120 grams) at a time, mixing each addition on low speed until fully incorporated. Add the last ½ cup (60 grams) and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Stir the coffee mixture one more time to ensure all instant coffee is dissolved. Add the coffee, vanilla bean paste, and salt to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low to medium speed until everything is fully combined, stopping occasionally to scrape down the bowl sides for even mixing.
  5. Frost Your Dessert: Use this coffee frosting to top cupcakes, cakes, or other baked goods as desired. Spread or pipe it onto your favorite treats for a delicious coffee-flavored finish.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy beating and a smooth frosting texture.
  • You can adjust the amount of instant coffee to make the flavor stronger or milder.
  • If frosting is too thick, add a small splash of heavy cream to loosen it slightly, mixing gently.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week; bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.
  • This frosting works beautifully for coffee or chocolate-flavored cakes and pairs well with vanilla or caramel bases.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert Frosting
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American