Lemon Butter Icing

Name: Lemon Butter Icing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 cups icing sugar (sifted); 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (finely grated); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

10 min 12 servings Easy

All Recipes

Lemon Butter Icing

A tangy and creamy lemon butter icing perfect for cakes and cupcakes.

Prep

10 min

Total

10 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Lemon butter icing is a delightful topping that adds a burst of tangy lemon flavour to your favourite cakes and cupcakes. This icing is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart. Using fresh lemon juice and zest, this icing brings a refreshing taste that complements a variety of baked goods. Whether you’re frosting a classic vanilla cake or adding a twist to a chocolate cupcake, this lemon butter icing is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the butter

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Add lemon and vanilla

Gradually beat in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until combined.

Pro tip: Adjust lemon juice to taste if you prefer a tangier icing.

Incorporate icing sugar

Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

Pro tip: Sift the icing sugar to prevent lumps in the icing.

Adjust consistency

If the icing is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time, beating until you reach the desired consistency.

Final beating

Beat the icing on high for an additional 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Pro tip: This step incorporates air, making the icing light.

Application

Spread the icing over cooled cakes or cupcakes using a spatula.

Pro tip: Chill the icing slightly if it becomes too soft during application.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavour.
Soften butter at room temperature for easy mixing.
Add more icing sugar for a thicker consistency.
Chill the icing if it becomes too soft during application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lemon butter icing used for?

Lemon butter icing is used to frost cakes and cupcakes, adding a sweet and tangy lemon flavour.

How do I make lemon icing thicker?

To make lemon icing thicker, add more sifted icing sugar until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I make lemon butter icing ahead of time?

Yes, lemon butter icing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

How much lemon butter icing do I need for a cake?

This recipe makes enough icing to cover a standard 9-inch (23 cm) round cake or 12 cupcakes.

What can I pair lemon butter icing with?

Pair lemon butter icing with vanilla, poppy seed, or blueberry cakes for a delicious combination.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, spread the lemon butter icing generously over cooled cakes or cupcakes. Pair it with vanilla or poppy seed cakes for a delicious combination. This icing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using for the best consistency.