Small Batch Strawberry Buttercream (With Freeze-Dried Strawberries)

Creamy strawberry buttercream frosting in a bowl.

5 from 2 reviews

Small Batch Strawberry Buttercream (With Freeze-Dried Strawberries)

Small batch strawberry buttercream frosting made with freeze-dried strawberries for bold flavor and natural pink color. This smooth and creamy frosting pipes beautifully and holds its shape — perfect for small cakes, cupcakes, or any dessert that deserves a taste of real strawberries.

Prep Time15

Total Time15

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: Cups (approx.)

Calories: 100kcal

Author: Erin Cernich

Equipment

Ingredients

6 tablespoons freeze dried strawberries, ground to powder will yield approximately 3 tablespoons of powder
¾ to 1 cups powdered sugar sift for best results
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract optional
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 to 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, room temperature

Instructions

In a small blender or food processor, add the freeze-dried strawberries and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Pulse for a few seconds until the strawberries have been ground into powder. The freeze-dried strawberries have a robust flavor, and depending on your taste preference, you can add 1 to 2 more tablespoons to suit your taste. If you add more strawberry powder, I recommend adding a few extra drizzles of cream to make creamy frosting.
6 tablespoons freeze dried strawberries, ground to powder
Add the butter to a medium mixing bowl. See the Notes below to use a stand mixer. Use a hand mixer with beater attachments and beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy – about 2 minutes. Sift the strawberry powder mix over the butter, then add the salt, vanilla, and 1 tablespoon of cream. Beat on medium speed until combined and the frosting begins to get creamy. Sift in 1/2 cup powdered sugar and beat until well combined.
3/4 to 1 cups powdered sugar, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, ⅛ teaspoon salt, 1 to 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, room temperature
Switch to the whisk attachments on your mixer. Turn the mixer on medium-high speed and continue to mix for at least 3 to 5 minutes - the frosting will start to get fluffy and light. While mixing, add a little more cream and/or powdered sugar to get your desired frosting consistency. I prefer my frosting lighter and often add a little more than 2 tablespoons of cream with close to 1 cup of sugar. More powdered sugar will yield a stiffer, thicker frosting.
1 to 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, room temperature
The frosting is ready to use immediately or can be stored in a covered container and refrigerated for up to 1 week. If refrigerating, bring the frosting to room temperature to use. I also recommend giving it another mix to lighten and loosen.

Notes

Serving Size - This is a small batch recipe that is easily doubled.
Yield - This recipe will yield enough frosting for 4 to 6 cupcakes or a 6-inch single-layer cake.
Stand Mixer - You can use your standard tilt-head stand mixer and attachments with a small 3-quart mixing bowl. Note that when creaming the butter, you will want to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Even though it is a smaller bowl, the butter may want to stick to the sides.
Freeze Dried Strawberries - Pulse the strawberries with the powdered sugar so they don't clump when mixing the frosting.
Frosting Consistency - I prefer a lighter, fluffier frosting. I usually add a splash or two more of the cream with about 3/4 cup of powdered sugar to make the frosting lighter. More powdered sugar will yield thicker, stiffer frosting.
Mix Time - After adding all the ingredients, you will want to mix the frosting for at least 3 to 5 minutes to achieve a light and fluffy frosting. This is where using your stand mixer comes in handy!
Storage - The frosting is room temperature stable for up to 2 days. If you are not using the frosting right away, I recommend refrigerating it in a covered container for up to 1 week. When ready to use, bring to room temp and mix it again to get it fluffy.
Don't Skip The Salt - Unless you have to! The salt will balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor.

Nutrition