Mary Berry Vanilla Buttercream Recipe

Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream is a light, creamy, and silky-smooth frosting, perfect for cakes and cupcakes. With just four simple ingredients, this easy buttercream adds a deliciously sweet and buttery touch to any bake.

What Is Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream?

Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream is a classic British frosting made with butter, icing sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. It is perfect for piping onto cupcakes, spreading over sponge cakes, or filling sandwich cakes, creating a deliciously smooth and fluffy texture.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Light, creamy, and smooth – perfect for spreading or piping.
• It uses only four ingredients, which are simple and quick to make.
• Pairs well with a variety of cakes and cupcakes.
• Easy to flavor and customize.
• Can be made in advance and stored.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Vanilla Buttercream

• 150g (⅔ cup) unsalted butter (softened)
• 300g (2½ cups) icing sugar (sifted)
• 2 tbsp milk (or more if needed)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Additions for Variations

• Chocolate Buttercream: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder.
• Lemon Buttercream: Replace vanilla with 1 tbsp lemon juice and zest.
• Coffee Buttercream: Dissolve 1 tsp instant coffee in 1 tbsp hot water and add.
• Almond Buttercream: Add ½ tsp almond extract.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Sifter
• Spatula
• Piping bag with nozzle (optional)

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream

Step 1: Beat the Butter Until Fluffy

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric hand mixer or stand mixer for 2-3 minutes until pale and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Icing Sugar Gradually

• Sift the icing sugar to remove lumps.
• Add half of the icing sugar to the butter and beat on low speed until combined.
• Add the remaining icing sugar and beat again for another 2 minutes until fluffy.

Step 3: Add Milk and Vanilla Extract

• Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, then beat for another 2 minutes until smooth.
• If the buttercream is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 4: Pipe or Spread the Buttercream

• Spoon the buttercream into a piping bag with a nozzle for decorating cupcakes.
• Alternatively, use a spatula or knife to spread the icing smoothly over the cakes.

What to Serve With Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream

• Classic vanilla sponge cake – a perfect match.
• Chocolate cake or cupcakes – for a rich contrast.
• Red velvet cupcakes – for a creamy finish.
• Carrot cake – adds sweetness and smoothness.
• Lemon drizzle cake – for a citrusy pairing.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Buttercream

• Use room temperature butter for a smooth consistency.
• Sift the icing sugar to prevent lumps in the buttercream.
• Beat the butter well before adding sugar to achieve a light and airy texture.
• Adjust the consistency with a little more milk if too thick or extra icing sugar if too soft.
• Chill for 10 minutes before piping if the buttercream is too soft.

What Are Variations of Mary Berry Vanilla Buttercream?

• Cream Cheese Buttercream: Replace half the butter with cream cheese.
• Salted Caramel Buttercream: Add 2 tbsp caramel sauce and a pinch of salt.
• Strawberry Buttercream: Blend fresh strawberries and fold them in for a fruity version.
• Nutella Buttercream: Mix in 2 tbsp Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.

How Do I Store Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream?

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw and re-whip before using.
• Re-whip before using if stored in the fridge or freezer to restore its texture.

How Can I Reuse Leftover Buttercream?

• Spread on cookies or biscuits for an extra treat.
• Fill between cake layers for a creamy center.
• Use as a dip for fresh fruit.
• Pipe onto brownies for added decoration.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

• Reduce icing sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
• Use unsalted butter to control the salt content.
• Swap half the butter for Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving – Based on 12 Cupcakes)

• Calories: 200
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 28g

FAQs

How Do I Fix Buttercream That’s Too Runny?

If the buttercream is too runny, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before whipping again. Adding extra sifted icing sugar can also help thicken the consistency.

Can I Make Buttercream Without an Electric Mixer?

Yes, you can mix buttercream by hand using a whisk or spatula, but it will take longer and require more effort. Using a mixer makes the process easier and gives a smoother result.

How Do I Make Buttercream Less Sweet?

To reduce sweetness, add a pinch of salt or a few drops of lemon juice. You can also use whipped cream or cream cheese to balance the sugar while keeping the texture smooth.

Can I Use Buttercream for Piping?

Yes, this buttercream is perfect for piping. If it’s too soft, chill it for 10 minutes before piping. If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time to loosen it.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Vanilla Buttercream is a classic, smooth, and delicious frosting that’s perfect for decorating cakes and cupcakes. With just four simple ingredients, this buttercream is easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Try this simple yet elegant recipe today and elevate your homemade bakes with the perfect finishing touch!

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