Pin it
This raspberry frosting is a showstopper for cakes or cupcakes With creamy tangy cream cheese buttery richness vibrant raspberry flavor and a hint of lemon zest it is bright and balanced I have made it for countless birthday parties and it always gets rave reviews
I created this frosting one summer when fresh raspberries were out of season and freeze dried berries saved the day Everyone loved the fresh pop of flavor so much this frosting became my signature topper for vanilla cupcakes
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: room temperature for velvety tang and structure Always let it fully soften for easy mixing and best texture
- Unsalted butter: room temperature adds rich creaminess and supports the frosting’s stability Choose high quality butter for the best flavor
- Powdered sugar: sifted for sweetness and a silky smooth finish Sifting makes blending effortless and ensures a lump free frosting
- Freeze dried raspberries: grounded to a fine crumb packs intense raspberry flavor and gorgeous color Choose bright red berries that have no added sugar or oil
- Lemon zest: lifts and balances the berry richness Use a fresh lemon and avoid the bitter white pith
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sift the Sugar and Prep Raspberries:
- Sift powdered sugar into a medium bowl to avoid lumps Use a food processor to grind freeze dried raspberries into a fine crumb This step brings out their color and flavor
- Cream the Butter:
- In a large bowl with a mixer beat unsalted butter on high for about 2 minutes The butter should look pale and fluffy which means air is whipped in for a lighter frosting
- Add Cream Cheese:
- Add cream cheese to the butter and beat again on high for about 1 minute Be sure both are the same temperature so the frosting blends evenly and stays smooth
- Add Powdered Sugar:
- Add half the sifted powdered sugar to the bowl Mix on low speed until just combined This keeps the sugar from flying out Then add the rest and mix again until incorporated
- Mix in Raspberries and Lemon:
- Pour in the prepared raspberry crumb and lemon zest Beat on high speed until everything is evenly combined and the frosting is creamy with a gorgeous pink hue Stop and scrape the bowl as needed
Pin it
Freeze dried raspberries bring out the most intense berry flavor and the lemon wakes up all the flavors My nieces always ask to lick the beaters and say this tastes like summer
Storage Tips
Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days Let it sit out at room temperature to soften before spreading over baked goods If you need to make it ahead you can freeze it tightly covered for up to one month and then rewhip before using
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find freeze dried raspberries you can use freeze dried strawberries for a different berry spin You can use a bit of orange zest in place of lemon zest for a mellower citrus note I always recommend using full fat cream cheese for the best flavor and consistency but low fat works in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
Spread this berry frosting thick over layer cakes pipe it as swirls on cupcakes or even sandwich it inside whoopie pies It makes even simple sheet cakes look and taste special This frosting pairs especially well with vanilla sponge or chocolate cake or try it with lemon bars for a tart sweet treat
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh raspberries instead of freeze dried?
Freeze dried raspberries provide concentrated flavor without excess moisture, helping maintain a stable texture. Using fresh berries may add too much liquid and result in a runny spread.
- → Should the cream cheese be cold or at room temperature?
Helping both the cream cheese and butter reach room temperature ensures a smooth and creamy consistency without lumps or splitting.
- → How do I achieve a vibrant pink color?
The ground freeze dried raspberries naturally deliver a bold pink hue. For a deeper color, you can add extra raspberry powder as desired.
- → How long can this frosting be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for easy spreading or piping.
- → Can this frosting be frozen?
Yes, this frosting freezes well. Place in a sealed container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, then whip briefly to restore texture.
- → Is this suitable for piping decorations?
This frosting holds its shape well, making it ideal for piping swirls or decorative borders on cakes and cupcakes.