Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Lemon cream cheese frosting is a velvety blend of cream cheese, butter, and zesty lemon that brings a tangy and indulgent twist to your desserts.

Prep Time10

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Servings: cups

Calories: 1084kcal

16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature (two 8-ounce or two 453-gram packages)
1 cup salted butter, softened to room temperature
1 tablespoon freshly zested lemon
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
7 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Using either a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a large mixing bowl (4-5 quarts) and a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter for 1-1½ minutes or until well blended.
Add the fresh lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla. Continue to mix just until incorporated.
Lower the mixer speed to low and add the powdered sugar 1½ cups at a time, mixing well after each addition. You will need to use a silicone spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Once all of the powdered sugar has been added, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and continue to mix for about 2 minutes or until the frosting is smooth.
If your kitchen is on the warmer side, Cover and chill in the refrigerator until you are ready to use.

The beauty of this frosting is that you can make it in advance and store it in the freezer until the day you are ready to use it.
Make sure you use room temperature (65°F) cream cheese and butter to avoid lumps in your creamy frosting.
For piping the frosting, chilling for 30-40 minutes is recommended. For frosting a cake, 30 minutes is sufficient.