Description
This Spiced Creamy Gingerbread Frosting with Vanilla Infusion is a luscious, aromatic frosting perfect for enhancing your holiday gingerbread cakes and cookies. Combining a blend of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with a rich vanilla undertone, this frosting delivers a smooth, fluffy texture and a delightful depth of flavor that brings classic seasonal warmth to your desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Spices and Flavoring
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until it is smooth and creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl. Once all the sugar is added, beat on medium speed until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and continue mixing on low speed until incorporated. Increase to medium speed and whip the frosting for another 2 minutes until airy and smooth.
- Mix in Spices and Vanilla: Add the ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the frosting. Mix on medium speed until all the spices and vanilla are well blended and the frosting has an even texture and color, about 1-2 minutes.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the frosting and adjust the spices if desired. If the frosting is too thick, gradually add more heavy cream by the tablespoon until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Use or Store: Once ready, use immediately to frost your gingerbread cakes or cookies, or transfer the frosting to an airtight container and refrigerate for later use.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth, creamy base.
- Sifting the powdered sugar helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky texture.
- Adjust the level of spices to match your personal taste preference for warmth and intensity.
- If refrigerated, bring the frosting to room temperature and briefly rewhip before using to restore fluffiness.
- This frosting pairs perfectly with gingerbread, spice cakes, and sugar cookies.
