Vegan Vanilla Frosting Gluten free, dairy free, and so so simple to make! I was…
Vegan Vanilla Frosting
Gluten free, dairy free, and so so simple to make!
I was always worried when I went dairy free that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy a lot of my fave foods. One of them was frosting, because let’s be real, there’s nothing like a super sweet creamy vanilla frosting to top cakes or dip pretzels in ? However, I found a way to make my own! I’m so excited to share this simple and sweet recipe for dairy free frosting.
### Vegan Vanilla Frosting
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup vegan butter, softened (such as Earth Balance)
– 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
– 2-3 tablespoons almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegan Butter:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
3. **Incorporate the Liquid Ingredients:** Add 2 tablespoons of almond milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Beat on medium speed until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of almond milk, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
4. **Beat to Perfection:** Continue to beat the frosting on high speed for another 2-3 minutes until it’s light and airy.
5. **Use or Store:** Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If not using right away, store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and rewhip if necessary.
*Chef’s Tip:* For a more stable frosting that holds its shape better in warm conditions, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or arrowroot powder when adding the powdered sugar. This helps to thicken the frosting without affecting the flavor.
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### Variations and Suggestions:
– **Lemon Vanilla Frosting:** Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for a zesty twist.
– **Chocolate Vanilla Frosting:** Mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder with the powdered sugar for a chocolate version of the frosting.
– **Coconut Vanilla Frosting:** Substitute coconut milk for the almond milk and add 1/2 teaspoon of coconut extract for a tropical flavor.
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**Menu Suggestions:**
– **Cake Pairings:** This vegan vanilla frosting is perfect for frosting classic vanilla or chocolate cakes, carrot cake, or red velvet cake.
– **Cupcake Toppings:** Use this frosting to top your favorite vegan cupcakes, and sprinkle with vegan-friendly decorations like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or colorful sprinkles.
– **Cookie Sandwiches:** Spread the frosting between two cookies (such as vegan chocolate chip or sugar cookies) for a delightful treat.
Enjoy creating delicious vegan desserts with this versatile and creamy vanilla frosting!
