Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

If you’re searching for a luscious, vibrant frosting that brings a burst of fresh berry flavor to your baked goodies, Strawberry Buttercream is your new best friend. This delightful spread is a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and fragrant strawberry essence, crafted from freeze-dried strawberries that pack an intense fruit flavor without watering down the texture. Whether you’re dressing up cupcakes, layering cakes, or simply craving a spoonful, this Strawberry Buttercream delivers a gorgeous pink hue and a silky smooth texture that’s utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Strawberry Buttercream is surprisingly simple, and every ingredient is carefully chosen to build that perfect creamy texture and enchanting strawberry taste. Each one plays its part from adding rich fat to balancing sweetness and highlighting the bright berry flavor.

• Freeze-dried strawberries (1 cup / 23g): These provide concentrated strawberry flavor with no added moisture, essential for a smooth buttercream.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g), room temperature: The creamy base of the frosting, softened for easy whipping and an airy finish.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the strawberry perfectly.
• Whole milk (3 tbsp / 45ml), room temperature: Helps thin the buttercream slightly for a spreadable consistency without sacrificing richness.
• Powdered sugar (3 1/2 cups / 420g): Provides sweetness and structure, ensuring the frosting holds its shape beautifully.
• Salt (1/8 tsp, or to taste): Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors and cut through the sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Buttercream

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Powder

Start by grinding your freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a food processor. This step is crucial because it intensifies the strawberry flavor, ensuring every bite of your buttercream bursts with fruity goodness without any gritty texture.

Step 2: Whip the Butter

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, whip the room temperature butter on medium speed until it turns creamy and light in color, which usually takes about five minutes. This aerates the butter and sets the stage for a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth buttercream.

Step 3: Incorporate Flavors and Liquid

Next, add the strawberry powder, vanilla extract, and whole milk to the whipped butter. Continue mixing on medium speed for about a minute, making sure to scrape down the sides and paddle to ensure everything is fully integrated and the mixture is smooth and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Powdered Sugar and Salt

Add the powdered sugar gradually, a cup or two at a time, whipping on low speed for the best control. Scrape down the bowl after each addition to maintain an even consistency throughout. Once all the sugar has been incorporated, add the pinch of salt and continue mixing just until silky smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the buttercream light and creamy.

How to Serve Strawberry Buttercream

Garnishes

Strawberry Buttercream pairs beautifully with delicate garnishes that echo its fruity freshness. Think fresh strawberry slices, tiny edible flowers, or a light dusting of freeze-dried strawberry powder on top. These small touches not only elevate the presentation but also add subtle texture and bursts of natural flavor.

Side Dishes

This buttercream is perfect alongside soft vanilla cupcakes, tender sponge cakes, or even simple sugar cookies. It balances sweetness and fruitiness beautifully, making your desserts pop with color and taste. For a more decadent option, spread it between layers of a white or lemon cake for a stunning contrast of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get a bit creative? Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to swirl generous rosettes of Strawberry Buttercream atop your cakes and cupcakes. You can even spread it thickly on cake pops or brownies. For a showstopper, layer it with fresh strawberries and cake slices in a dessert trifle glass for a gorgeous layered treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Strawberry Buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using it again, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its airy texture.

Freezing

If you want to prepare your Strawberry Buttercream ahead of time, it freezes wonderfully. Place it in a freezer-safe container, pressing a layer of plastic wrap on the surface to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. To use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and whip again before spreading.

Reheating

Buttercream should never be heated in the traditional sense, as this can separate the butter. Instead, let refrigerated or thawed buttercream come back to room temperature naturally. Then remix with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried ones?

Fresh strawberries contain more moisture, which can alter the buttercream’s texture, making it less smooth and more runny. Freeze-dried strawberries provide intense flavor without added moisture, so they’re the best choice for this recipe.

How can I make my Strawberry Buttercream less sweet?

Adjusting the amount of powdered sugar can help, but remember that it also affects texture. You could try reducing the sugar slightly and balancing the flavor with a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice to bring brightness.

Is it possible to make this frosting vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based vegan butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk. Just ensure the vegan butter is firm and works well for whipping.

Why is my buttercream grainy after adding strawberry powder?

Graininess usually comes from undissolved sugar or coarse freeze-dried pieces. Be sure the strawberry powder is very finely ground and sift the powdered sugar if it’s lumpy before adding to prevent this.

How long does Strawberry Buttercream last on a cake?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, cakes frosted with Strawberry Buttercream should be eaten within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture. Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the creamiest experience.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Buttercream, it might just become your go-to frosting for all your sweet creations. Its bright berry flavor combined with silky, creamy texture is simply unbeatable. So grab those freeze-dried strawberries, whip up a batch, and get ready to add a splash of pink joy to your baking adventures!

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