Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Frosting

This Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect vegan frosting option for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, offering a creamy, smooth texture and rich flavor without any dairy. Made with simple ingredients like dairy-free butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, this easy-to-make frosting is ideal for those following a dairy-free or vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re decorating a birthday cake or sweetening up your favorite baked goods, this versatile frosting delivers a perfect, creamy finish every time. Try this simple and delicious dairy-free frosting recipe for a delightful treat everyone can enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) tub dairy-free cream cheese (leave out for 20 minutes before using)
• 1 stick dairy-free butter (softened, but not too soft)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla bean extract

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Instructions

1. In a mixer, combine the dairy-free cream cheese and butter using the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until smooth and well combined.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 2 cups at a time. After each addition, start mixing on low speed until the sugar is mostly incorporated. Then, increase the speed to medium and continue mixing for about 1 minute until fully combined.
3. Once all the powdered sugar is added, stir in the vanilla extract and mix briefly to combine.
4. Check the frosting’s consistency. It should be thick and creamy. If it appears too thin, refer to the tips section below for troubleshooting.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: This dairy-free cream cheese frosting offers the perfect balance of creamy texture and rich flavor, ideal for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
• Simple ingredients: Made with easily accessible dairy-free butter and cream cheese, this frosting is perfect for those following a dairy-free diet.
• Perfectly sweet: With just the right amount of sweetness from powdered sugar and vanilla, this frosting is a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile: It pairs beautifully with a variety of cakes, cupcakes, and pastries, making it a go-to frosting for many occasions.

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Tips

• Consistency matters: If your frosting is too thin or runny, add more powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it thickens.
• Softening the ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid clumps.
• Avoid overmixing: Once you add the vanilla extract, mix just enough to incorporate it. Overmixing can cause the frosting to lose its creamy texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Flavored frostings: Add a few tablespoons of fruit puree or a teaspoon of cocoa powder to create different flavor profiles, such as strawberry or chocolate.
• Sweetener options: If you prefer a lower-sugar option, you can substitute powdered erythritol or another powdered sugar alternative.
• Vanilla substitute: If you don’t have vanilla bean extract, regular vanilla extract can be used as a replacement for a similar flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dairy-free cream cheese frosting in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore its smooth consistency.

Can I use non-dairy cream cheese and butter brands?

Absolutely! There are several excellent non-dairy brands available, such as Miyoko’s, Kite Hill, or Tofutti, for the cream cheese and Earth Balance or Miyoko’s for the butter.

My frosting is too runny, what should I do?

If the frosting is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved. You can also chill it briefly to firm it up.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with cakes: This frosting is perfect for frosting carrot cake, chocolate cake, or vanilla cupcakes.
• Top with sprinkles: Add fun decorations like sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut to enhance the look and texture.
• Chill before use: If the frosting feels too soft for decorating, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before piping onto cupcakes or cakes for a firmer consistency.