The best cinnamon buns icing you will have
The best cinnamon buns icing you will have is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 130 calories per serving. Recipe by foodi_ma on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 12 min
Cost: $1.75 total, $0.15 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature)
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened, full‑fat)
- 0.25 cup Whole Milk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla extract)
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Measure 2 Tbsp softened butter, 4 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 cups sifted powdered sugar. Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy blending.
Time: PT5M
Blend Icing
Place all measured ingredients into the blender. Blend on medium speed for 1–2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides, until the icing is completely smooth and creamy.
Time: PT2M
Finish and Store
Transfer the icing to a bowl. Use immediately to frost a cake or cupcakes, or cover tightly and refrigerate.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 130
- Protein
- 0.8g
- Carbohydrates
- 20g
- Fat
- 5g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains dairy
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Vegetable shortening
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Mascarpone, Full‑fat Greek yogurt (for a lighter texture)
- Instead of Whole Milk: 2% milk, Almond milk (unsweetened), Soy milk
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Vanilla bean paste, Almond extract (use half the amount)
- Instead of Powdered Sugar: Confectioners' sugar, Blend granulated sugar with 1 tbsp cornstarch
Equipment Needed
- Blender
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
- Rubber Spatula (optional)
- Mixing Bowl (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are fully softened before blending.
- Blend until the icing is completely smooth with no lumps.
- Adjust consistency with a little extra milk if the icing is too thick.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a pinch of fine sea salt to enhance the sweetness and balance flavors.
- For a pink frosting, mix in a few drops of red food coloring after blending.
- Use room‑temperature ingredients for the smoothest texture.
Troubleshooting
Icing is too thick.
Add 1 Tbsp milk at a time, blending after each addition, until the desired spreadable consistency is reached.
Icing is grainy or lumpy.
Make sure the powdered sugar is sifted and blend the mixture a little longer; you can also pass the icing through a fine mesh sieve.
Icing separates or looks curdled.
Confirm that butter and cream cheese were fully softened before blending; if separation occurs, blend again on low speed until smooth.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours while frosting; keep refrigerated after.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the icing a day ahead and keep it refrigerated; bring to room temperature and stir before using.
- If the icing becomes too stiff after chilling, whisk in a little extra milk (1 Tbsp at a time) until desired consistency is reached.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cream cheese icing in American baking?
Cream cheese icing became popular in the United States during the mid‑20th century, especially as a topping for carrot cake and red velvet cake. Its tangy flavor complements sweet desserts and has become a staple in American home baking.
How does cream cheese icing differ from traditional buttercream in American cuisine?
Cream cheese icing contains softened cream cheese and a small amount of milk, giving it a tangy, slightly softer texture compared to classic buttercream, which relies solely on butter and powdered sugar for a richer, sweeter taste.
What regional variations of cream cheese frosting exist within the United States?
In the Southern United States, cream cheese frosting is often flavored with a hint of lemon or orange zest. In the Midwest, some recipes add a touch of sour cream for extra tang. The basic recipe can be adapted with local flavorings to reflect regional tastes.
What occasions or celebrations is cream cheese icing traditionally associated with in American culture?
Cream cheese icing is a classic topping for birthday cakes, especially carrot and red‑velvet cakes, as well as for holiday desserts like pumpkin or spice cakes. It’s also popular for wedding cupcakes and potluck gatherings.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in a classic American cream cheese icing versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic ingredients are unsalted butter, full‑fat cream cheese, whole milk, pure vanilla extract, and sifted powdered sugar. Acceptable substitutes include margarine for butter, mascarpone for cream cheese, and non‑dairy milks for those avoiding dairy, though flavor and texture may vary.
What other American desserts pair well with this simple cream cheese icing?
This icing pairs beautifully with carrot cake, red‑velvet cake, pumpkin spice cake, cinnamon rolls, and even as a dip for fresh fruit or cookies.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making simple cream cheese icing?
Common mistakes include using cold butter or cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy texture, and not blending long enough, leaving powdered sugar pockets. Always soften dairy ingredients and blend until completely smooth.
Why does this recipe use a small amount of milk instead of water to adjust consistency?
Milk adds a creamy richness and a slight sweetness that water cannot provide. It helps achieve a smooth, spreadable texture while maintaining the flavor balance of the icing.
What does the YouTube channel foodi_ma specialize in?
The YouTube channel foodi_ma focuses on quick, easy-to-follow home cooking tutorials, often highlighting simple techniques and minimal‑ingredient recipes for everyday meals and desserts.
How does the YouTube channel foodi_ma's approach to American dessert recipes differ from other cooking channels?
foodi_ma emphasizes ultra‑simple, no‑bake methods that require only a few common pantry items, contrasting with many channels that use more elaborate techniques or specialty equipment. The channel aims for accessibility for beginner home cooks.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
