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Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.6 from 118 reviews

This Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting is a rich and creamy topping with a subtle coffee flavor, perfect for enhancing cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. The smooth blend of cream cheese and butter with the bold taste of espresso creates a delightful balance that adds both sweetness and a hint of bitterness.

Ingredients

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup softened cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup salted softened butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp instant espresso powder
  • 1 tbsp warm water

Instructions

  1. Dissolve Espresso Powder: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder in 1 tablespoon of warm water. Stir until fully combined to create a concentrated espresso mixture.
  2. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened salted butter using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
  3. Add Powdered Sugar and Espresso Mixture: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese and butter mixture, beating on low speed initially to avoid a sugar cloud, then increasing to medium speed. Pour in the dissolved espresso mixture and continue to beat all ingredients together until the frosting is creamy, fluffy, and evenly combined, about 3-4 minutes.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting without lumps.
  • Use instant espresso powder for best dissolvability and flavor; brewed espresso is not recommended as it may affect the consistency.
  • Adjust the espresso quantity to taste if a stronger coffee flavor is preferred.
  • Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and re-whip before use.
  • This frosting pairs particularly well with chocolate, vanilla, and carrot cakes.