Description
This Decadent Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and smooth chocolate frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Made with softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a hint of vanilla, this frosting strikes a perfect balance between tangy and sweet, with a luxurious chocolate flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce/226g) package cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup (170g) butter, softened
- 1 pound (450g) powdered sugar
- ⅔ cup (66g) cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
- 1 tablespoon whole milk (optional)
Instructions
- Cream the butter and cream cheese: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or in a large bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter on medium speed until creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Add vanilla and half the sugar: Add the vanilla extract and salt (if using). Sift in half of the powdered sugar and beat on low speed for 30 seconds just until combined.
- Incorporate remaining sugar and cocoa: Sift in the remaining powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds just until combined, then increase the speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick or dry, add the milk 1 teaspoon at a time and beat until combined to reach desired spreading or piping consistency. Use immediately to spread on cakes or pipe onto cupcakes.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese and butter to ensure a smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Sift powdered sugar and cocoa powder to prevent clumps in the frosting.
- If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, you can increase the cocoa powder slightly, but it may affect sweetness and texture.
- The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
- If using salted butter, omit the added salt to avoid oversalting.
