32+ Irresistible Italian Buttercream Recipes to Elevate Your Desserts

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Italian buttercream is the crown jewel of frostings, known for its smooth texture, rich flavor, and versatility.

Whether you’re baking a simple cake or creating an extravagant dessert, this buttery, silky frosting elevates everything it touches.

But Italian buttercream isn’t just a one-size-fits-all frosting—it comes in countless variations, each bringing its unique twist to your creations.

From classic vanilla to indulgent chocolate, fruity flavors to sophisticated coffee and caramel infusions, there’s an Italian buttercream recipe for every occasion.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve gathered 32+ Italian buttercream recipes to inspire your next baking adventure.

Get ready to discover a world of smooth, velvety frostings that will transform your cakes, cupcakes, and pastries into show-stopping masterpieces.

32+ Irresistible Italian Buttercream Recipes to Elevate Your Desserts

Italian buttercream is more than just a frosting—it’s a game-changer.

Its smooth, airy texture and rich, buttery flavor make it the perfect choice for everything from casual cupcakes to wedding cakes.

With 32+ recipes to explore, you’ll never run out of ways to personalize this classic frosting.

Whether you’re adding zesty citrus, decadent chocolate, or fragrant vanilla, Italian buttercream allows for endless customization to suit any flavor profile.

As you dive into these recipes, let your creativity flow and experiment with different flavor combinations to find the perfect frosting for your next celebration or everyday treat.

Embrace the art of Italian buttercream, and prepare to wow your guests with the smoothest, most luxurious desserts they’ve ever tasted.

Classic Italian Buttercream

Recipe Summary
Classic Italian Buttercream is known for its light and silky texture, achieved by combining whipped egg whites and a rich butter-sugar mixture. Perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and pastries, it offers a smooth, creamy finish with a delicate sweetness. This buttercream holds its shape well and is ideal for intricate piping and detailed designs.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat to high and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook without stirring until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).
  2. While the sugar syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the whipped egg whites in a thin stream, avoiding the whisk. Increase the mixer speed to high and continue to whip until the meringue is cool, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and beat until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
  5. If the buttercream looks curdled at any point, continue to beat it for a few more minutes until it becomes smooth.

Conclusion
Classic Italian Buttercream is a rich and elegant frosting that elevates any cake. Its silky texture and slight vanilla flavor make it a versatile choice for all types of desserts. Whether used for covering a multi-tiered wedding cake or piped onto cupcakes, this buttercream offers a professional finish that is both delicious and visually appealing. The meringue base provides structure, while the butter lends a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth feel that is sure to impress.

Chocolate Italian Buttercream

Chocolate Italian Buttercream combines the classic Italian buttercream with the deep richness of chocolate. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers and adds a luxurious depth to cakes and cupcakes. The addition of melted chocolate gives the frosting a velvety texture and a decadent flavor that pairs well with a variety of cake flavors.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 6 oz semisweet chocolate, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. Meanwhile, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the sugar syrup is at the correct temperature, slowly pour it into the egg whites while the mixer is on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue to whip until the meringue is cool, about 8 minutes.
  4. While the meringue is cooling, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 30-second bursts. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly.
  5. Gradually add the softened butter to the meringue, beating until smooth. Once the buttercream is fully incorporated, add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until smooth and creamy.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes and then whip again until it firms up.

Chocolate Italian Buttercream is a dreamy, rich frosting that adds a layer of indulgence to any dessert. The balance of light meringue and creamy chocolate creates a luscious texture that is perfect for layering between cakes or topping decadent cupcakes. This buttercream can be paired with a variety of cake flavors, including vanilla, red velvet, or even chocolate cake for an extra chocolatey treat. Its smooth finish and deep cocoa flavor are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Hazelnut Italian Buttercream

Hazelnut Italian Buttercream brings a nutty twist to the traditional Italian buttercream, with the addition of smooth hazelnut paste. The subtle flavor of toasted hazelnuts enhances the richness of the buttercream, making it an excellent choice for filling or frosting cakes that require a little extra flavor complexity. This variation adds a luxurious touch to desserts while remaining light and fluffy.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup hazelnut paste
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to high and allow it to boil until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the sugar syrup is ready, carefully pour it into the whipped egg whites while mixing on low speed. Then, increase the speed to high and continue to whip until the mixture cools down, about 8 minutes.
  4. Add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, until smooth and incorporated.
  5. Stir in the hazelnut paste and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the buttercream is light and fluffy.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and then re-whip until it firms up.

Hazelnut Italian Buttercream offers a deliciously nutty flavor that complements a variety of cakes, especially those with rich or chocolatey bases. The hazelnut paste creates a delicate, toasted flavor that brings out the creamy, smooth texture of the buttercream. This buttercream is perfect for anyone looking to add a gourmet touch to their desserts, especially for special occasions. Whether used as a filling for a layered cake or as a frosting for cupcakes, this hazelnut buttercream provides a refined and irresistible flavor that will leave everyone asking for more.

Lemon Italian Buttercream

Lemon Italian Buttercream is a refreshing twist on the classic recipe, offering a citrusy zing that pairs beautifully with spring or summer cakes. The tartness of fresh lemon juice combined with the richness of butter and meringue creates a delicate yet flavorful frosting. It’s perfect for lemon cakes, cupcakes, or even as a topping for fruit-based desserts.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat and let it simmer until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  3. When the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue to whip until the mixture cools and forms a stiff meringue, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes and re-whip until it reaches the desired consistency.

Lemon Italian Buttercream is a delightful, refreshing frosting that adds a burst of citrus flavor to any dessert. Its light texture is perfectly balanced by the tartness of lemon, making it ideal for pairing with light and airy cakes like lemon sponge or vanilla chiffon. This buttercream can also be used for cupcakes, macarons, or as a filling for cookies. With its clean, bright flavor, Lemon Italian Buttercream will bring a touch of summer to any celebration.

Coffee Italian Buttercream

Coffee Italian Buttercream combines the smooth richness of buttercream with the bold flavor of coffee, creating a sophisticated and indulgent frosting. This variation is perfect for coffee lovers, offering a deep, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate, mocha, or even vanilla cakes. The coffee flavor is balanced, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of desserts.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp instant coffee granules
  • 2 tbsp hot water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat to high and let it simmer until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the sugar syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  3. Mix the instant coffee granules with hot water until dissolved, creating a strong coffee solution.
  4. Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites in a thin stream while the mixer is running on low, then increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the meringue cools, about 8 minutes.
  5. Gradually add the softened butter in stages, beating until smooth and fully incorporated.
  6. Stir in the coffee solution and vanilla extract, mixing until combined and smooth.
  7. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up.

Coffee Italian Buttercream is an elegant and rich frosting that adds depth and flavor to your baked goods. The smooth, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the bold coffee flavor, making it ideal for chocolate cakes or desserts that need a bit of a caffeine kick. Whether used on a layered cake or as a filling for macarons or pastries, this coffee-infused buttercream will add a sophisticated and irresistible touch to your desserts.

Raspberry Italian Buttercream

Raspberry Italian Buttercream is a fruity and vibrant twist on the traditional buttercream, offering a burst of fresh berry flavor. This buttercream is perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor to cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. The tangy sweetness of the raspberries pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the buttercream, creating a balanced and refreshing frosting.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup raspberry puree (fresh or frozen raspberries, blended and strained)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat and bring it to a simmer until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the sugar syrup is ready, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low, then increase the speed to high. Continue to whip until the mixture cools, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and beat until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Add the raspberry puree and vanilla extract, mixing until the buttercream is fully combined and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes and then re-whip until it firms up to the right consistency.

Raspberry Italian Buttercream is a fruity and flavorful frosting that adds a fresh and vibrant touch to any cake. Its sweet and slightly tangy taste complements a variety of flavors, making it perfect for pairing with vanilla, lemon, or chocolate cakes. This buttercream is an excellent choice for summer celebrations, as it brings a burst of berry flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether piped onto cupcakes or spread over a multi-layered cake, Raspberry Italian Buttercream is sure to delight the senses.

Strawberry Italian Buttercream

Strawberry Italian Buttercream brings the fresh, sweet taste of ripe strawberries to a creamy, velvety buttercream. With its natural fruity flavor, this buttercream is perfect for spring and summer cakes or cupcakes, adding a delightful pink hue and a burst of strawberry essence. The combination of strawberry puree and classic Italian buttercream results in a smooth, airy frosting that is both sweet and light.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries, blended and strained)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat and simmer until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low, then increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the meringue cools down, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until the buttercream is smooth and fully incorporated.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes, then re-whip until it firms up.

Strawberry Italian Buttercream is the perfect choice for adding a fresh, fruity flavor to your baked goods. It pairs beautifully with vanilla or lemon cakes and can even be used to fill tarts and cupcakes. The strawberry puree infuses the buttercream with a natural sweetness that is both light and indulgent. Whether you use it for a special occasion or just as a treat, Strawberry Italian Buttercream is sure to brighten up any dessert with its vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

Orange Italian Buttercream

Orange Italian Buttercream combines the zesty, citrusy flavor of orange with the rich, smooth texture of Italian buttercream. The natural orange juice and zest add a refreshing twist to this classic frosting, making it perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and pastries that need a little burst of citrus flavor. Its smooth consistency and bright flavor are ideal for creating elegant, refreshing desserts.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 2 tsp orange zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat to high and let it cook until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. While the sugar syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed. Once fully incorporated, increase the speed to high and continue whipping until the mixture cools down, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Add the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, and mix until the buttercream is fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes and then re-whip until it firms up to the desired consistency.

Orange Italian Buttercream brings a fresh, zesty element to your desserts, with the bright citrus flavor complementing a wide variety of cake flavors. This buttercream is perfect for pairing with chocolate, vanilla, or even almond cakes, offering a refreshing contrast to richer flavors. The combination of orange juice and zest infuses the frosting with a vibrant, natural flavor that makes it stand out. This elegant buttercream is perfect for any special occasion and is sure to leave your guests impressed with its refreshing and smooth texture.

Pistachio Italian Buttercream

Pistachio Italian Buttercream is a luxurious frosting that infuses the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios into the smooth, velvety base of Italian buttercream. The addition of pistachio paste or finely ground pistachios creates a delicate yet distinct flavor, making it a perfect choice for unique cakes and pastries. This buttercream is ideal for special occasions, offering a refined taste and a beautiful green hue that adds an elegant touch to any dessert.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup pistachio paste (or finely ground pistachios)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and let it simmer until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue to whip until the meringue is cool, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter in stages, beating until smooth and creamy.
  5. Stir in the pistachio paste and vanilla extract, mixing until the buttercream is smooth and fully combined.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes, then re-whip until it firms up.

Pistachio Italian Buttercream is a rich and nutty frosting that adds a sophisticated flavor to your cakes and cupcakes. The pistachio paste provides a smooth, creamy texture and a delicate, roasted nut flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate or vanilla cakes. This buttercream is perfect for weddings, holidays, or any event where you want to impress your guests with a unique and flavorful frosting. Its beautiful green hue and indulgent flavor make it the perfect finishing touch for a wide variety of desserts.

Coconut Italian Buttercream

Coconut Italian Buttercream is a tropical-inspired frosting that combines the creamy richness of traditional Italian buttercream with the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut. This frosting is perfect for adding a little exotic flair to cakes and cupcakes. With the addition of coconut milk and shredded coconut, it delivers a smooth texture and a distinct coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with tropical or fruity desserts.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (toasted or untoasted)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water, heating over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reach 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the meringue cools, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter in small pieces, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Add the coconut milk, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up to the desired consistency.

Coconut Italian Buttercream offers a tropical twist on the classic frosting, bringing the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut to your desserts. This buttery, silky frosting is perfect for cakes that pair well with coconut, such as chocolate or tropical fruit cakes. Its light, fluffy texture and rich coconut flavor will add a delightful touch to your cupcakes or as a filling for cookies and pastries. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple treat, Coconut Italian Buttercream will transport your desserts to an island getaway.

Salted Caramel Italian Buttercream

Salted Caramel Italian Buttercream is a rich and indulgent frosting that combines the buttery, smooth texture of Italian buttercream with the deep, sweet flavor of caramel and a touch of salt for balance. The salty-sweet contrast makes it the perfect accompaniment to cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. It’s a luxurious option that pairs well with chocolate or vanilla desserts and brings a sophisticated flair to any celebration.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought caramel sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and let it simmer until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the meringue cools down, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Stir in the caramel sauce, sea salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up.

Salted Caramel Italian Buttercream is the ultimate decadent frosting that combines the richness of caramel with the smoothness of buttercream. The balance of sweet and salty flavors creates a unique frosting that pairs beautifully with chocolate cakes, vanilla cakes, or even apple spice cakes. Its creamy texture and complex flavor profile make it a standout option for special occasions, from birthdays to holidays. This buttercream will elevate your desserts and add a touch of gourmet to your baking repertoire.

Matcha Italian Buttercream

Matcha Italian Buttercream is a vibrant and earthy variation of the classic buttercream, infused with matcha green tea powder. The combination of the rich, creamy base and the subtly bitter taste of matcha creates a unique, sophisticated flavor that pairs beautifully with both chocolate and vanilla cakes. This buttercream is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate and aromatic flavor of green tea.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp matcha green tea powder (high-quality)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water, heating over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer and cook until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase to high. Continue whipping until the mixture cools, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, beating until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Sift the matcha powder and add it to the buttercream, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up.

Matcha Italian Buttercream offers a subtle and sophisticated flavor that brings the unique taste of matcha to your cakes and cupcakes. This vibrant green frosting is perfect for pairing with light desserts such as vanilla or almond cakes, as well as richer chocolate treats that benefit from the earthy notes of matcha. Its creamy texture and delicate flavor profile make it a great option for tea lovers and anyone looking to try a different type of frosting. Whether used for a special occasion or a personal indulgence, Matcha Italian Buttercream is sure to add elegance to any dessert.

Coffee Italian Buttercream

Coffee Italian Buttercream is a sophisticated and aromatic frosting that infuses the deep, rich flavor of coffee into the smooth and creamy base of Italian buttercream. It’s the perfect choice for coffee lovers and pairs beautifully with chocolate or mocha cakes. The combination of brewed coffee and espresso powder provides a rich, balanced flavor that’s neither too sweet nor too overpowering, making it ideal for decadent desserts that need a coffee-inspired touch.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp brewed strong coffee, cooled
  • 1 tsp instant espresso powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the meringue cools, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and continue to whip until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
  5. Stir in the cooled brewed coffee, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up.

Coffee Italian Buttercream adds a rich, aromatic flavor that is perfect for coffee-based cakes, cupcakes, and pastries. Whether used to frost a classic chocolate cake or a coffee-flavored creation, this buttercream offers a velvety texture and the perfect balance of sweet and coffee notes. Its depth of flavor makes it an excellent choice for elegant, grown-up desserts that appeal to coffee aficionados. This luxurious frosting will elevate your desserts, adding a warm and inviting flavor to any occasion.

Lemon Italian Buttercream

Lemon Italian Buttercream brings a bright and refreshing citrus flavor to the classic buttercream frosting. With the tanginess of fresh lemon juice and the subtle zest of lemon peel, this frosting adds a burst of sunshine to cakes and cupcakes. The smooth, buttery texture balances the tartness, creating a light and airy frosting that is both sweet and slightly tangy, perfect for spring and summer desserts.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and simmer until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase to high. Continue whipping until the mixture cools down, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and continue mixing until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up.

Lemon Italian Buttercream is a refreshing and vibrant frosting that adds a zesty twist to any cake or dessert. The bright, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of cake flavors, including vanilla, almond, or even a lemon cake for an extra burst of lemon flavor. Its smooth, fluffy texture and natural tanginess make it the perfect choice for warm-weather celebrations or any occasion that calls for a light, uplifting dessert. This frosting is sure to bring a refreshing touch to your baked goods.

Hazelnut Italian Buttercream

Hazelnut Italian Buttercream offers a rich, nutty flavor with the smooth, velvety texture of Italian buttercream. The earthy taste of roasted hazelnuts pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting, making it an ideal choice for decadent cakes and cupcakes. This buttercream adds an elegant touch to your desserts, with its slightly sweet, toasted hazelnut flavor that complements chocolate cakes, coffee cakes, or even fruit-based desserts.

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup hazelnut paste or hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and let it simmer until it reaches 240°F.
  2. While the syrup is cooking, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form.
  3. Once the syrup reaches 240°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while mixing on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Continue whipping until the meringue cools, about 8 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the softened butter in stages, whipping until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy.
  5. Stir in the hazelnut paste or hazelnut spread and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes and re-whip until it firms up.

Hazelnut Italian Buttercream brings a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements chocolate and coffee cakes, but also pairs beautifully with fruit desserts like pear or apple cakes. Its velvety texture and unique, toasted hazelnut flavor make it an elegant and indulgent choice for weddings, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests. Whether used to frost cupcakes or as a filling for cakes, Hazelnut Italian Buttercream will elevate your desserts to new levels of decadence.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!