Coffee Frosting

Indulge in the rich, velvety flavor of homemade Coffee Frosting—an irresistible topping that brings a bold yet balanced coffee kick to your favorite baked goods. Whether you’re dressing up cupcakes, layering a cake, or adding flair to cookies, this creamy frosting transforms any dessert into something extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Coffee Frosting delivers a luxurious texture and deep flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s smooth, fluffy, and easy to spread or pipe, making it perfect for both casual and celebratory desserts. The instant coffee gives it a strong coffee flavor without overpowering the buttery base, and it pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, or spice cakes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 5 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• ⅛ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons instant coffee

• 6 tablespoons heavy cream, divided

Directions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl with a hand mixer), beat the butter on medium-high speed until creamy and pale—about 5 minutes.

2. Add half of the sifted confectioners’ sugar and mix on low speed until moistened. Increase to medium-high and beat for 3–5 minutes until well combined.

3. Add the remaining sugar, again starting on low and increasing to medium-high. Beat until fully incorporated, another 3–5 minutes.

4. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing to blend.

5. In a small bowl, dissolve the instant coffee in 3 tablespoons of heavy cream. Slowly add this mixture to the frosting while mixing on low.

6. Increase to medium-high and beat for 3–5 more minutes, pausing to scrape down the bowl after 2 minutes.

7. Check consistency. Add the remaining heavy cream ½ tablespoon at a time until the frosting is soft, fluffy, and spreadable, yet firm enough to hold its shape.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields enough frosting for 24 cupcakes or a 9-inch two-layer cake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Mocha Frosting: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the mix for a mocha twist.

• Espresso Kick: Substitute instant espresso powder for a deeper, more robust flavor.

• Caramel Coffee Frosting: Mix in 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce for a sweeter, more decadent finish.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cream alternative.

• Maple Coffee Frosting: Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to enhance the warm flavor notes.

• Irish Cream Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of Irish cream liqueur for a grown-up variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and rewhip before using.

Reusing: If refrigerated, let the frosting sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes and beat briefly to restore smoothness before piping or spreading.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

No, brewed coffee is too diluted and can change the texture of the frosting. Instant coffee or espresso powder is best.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Add a pinch of salt or a bit more butter to mellow the sweetness without affecting texture.

Can I pipe this frosting?

Yes, it holds its shape well and is ideal for piping designs on cakes and cupcakes.

What desserts pair best with coffee frosting?

It pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and caramel-based cakes or cupcakes.

Can I add food coloring?

Yes, though it already has a natural tan tone from the coffee. Gel food coloring works best.

How strong is the coffee flavor?

It’s bold but balanced. You can adjust the strength by using more or less instant coffee.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in the fridge and rewhip before using.

Is this frosting stable for warm weather?

It holds up well but can soften in high heat. For hot climates, refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I make this frosting vegan?

Yes, use vegan butter and a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.

What if my frosting is too stiff?

Add more cream ½ tablespoon at a time and beat until it reaches the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Coffee Frosting is the perfect way to add bold flavor and creamy texture to your baked goods. It’s simple to make, easy to adjust, and elevates everything from cupcakes to layer cakes. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking to try something new, this frosting is sure to impress.