Easy Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients

• 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
• 3 ½ cups (440 g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Instructions

1. Beat the butter: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat softened butter until creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add cocoa powder: Sift in cocoa powder to avoid lumps, then beat until well combined.
3. Mix in sugar & liquid: Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, alternating with 1 tablespoon of cream/milk. Beat on low at first, then increase speed.
4. Add flavoring: Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
5. Adjust consistency: If frosting is too thick, add a little more cream/milk. If too thin, add extra powdered sugar.
6. Whip until fluffy: Beat for 2–3 more minutes until smooth, light, and fluffy.

Yields: Enough to frost 12–14 cupcakes or a 9-inch cake.
Tip: For richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder or add 2 oz melted cooled chocolate while mixing.