How To: Make cream cheese frosting

Watch this video tutorial to learn how to make cream cheese frosting. Rich cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to decadent cakes, cupcakes, and more. This will make two cups, or enough to frost a two-layer cake.

You Will Need

* 1/4-c Unsalted butter
* 1 8-ounce package cream cheese
* 1 lb confectioners' sugar
* 2 tsp vanilla extract
* A medium mixing bowl
* A hand mixer
* A large sifter
* A wooden spoon
* Airtight container

Step 1. Combine the butter and cream cheese

Place the butter and all of the cream cheese in the mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed with the hand mixer for one to two minutes until well combined.

Bring butter and cream cheese to room temperature for easy blending.

Step 2. Sift the sugar

Sift the confectioners' sugar over the butter and cheese. Beat the mixture at medium speed for two minutes until fluffy.

Step 3. Stir in the vanilla

Slowly stir in the vanilla extract with a wooden spoon until combined.

Step 4. Store in the refrigerator

Use the frosting immediately – you should have about 2 cups, or enough to frost a two-layer cake – or place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will last three to five days. Don't forget to lick the spoon!

FACT: Cream cheese was accidentally invented in 1872 when an American dairy man tried to reproduce French Neufchatel cheese.