Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

This Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe is a creamy and fluffy recipe, which includes cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 10 minutes.

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Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2½ to 3 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • Pinch of kosher salt (optional, for balance)
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

How To Make Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

  1. Beat the cream cheese and butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the cream cheese and butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add vanilla and salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Incorporate the sugar: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Once all the sugar is added, beat on medium speed for 1–2 more minutes until the frosting is light and creamy.
  4. Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add 1–2 teaspoons of milk. If it’s too thin, add a bit more sifted sugar until the desired texture is reached.
  5. Use or store: Use immediately on cooled cakes or cupcakes, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Let come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • How to avoid lumpy frosting: Always use room temperature cream cheese and butter for the smoothest texture.
  • How sweet is this frosting? You can adjust the sugar to taste; start with less and add more if needed.
  • Can I add food coloring? Yes, you can add gel food coloring for a tint that matches the cake.
  • Best way to sift sugar: Use a fine mesh strainer or sifter to eliminate clumps.
  • How to pipe this frosting: Chill it briefly before piping to help it hold shape.

What To Serve With Red Velvet Frosting

This rich frosting is perfect for:

  • Red velvet cupcakes
  • Layer cakes (red velvet or chocolate)
  • Cookie sandwiches
  • Brownies
  • Mini bundt cakes
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

How To Store Red Velvet Frosting

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it soften at room temperature before re-whipping.

Freeze: You can freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then re-whip before using.

Red Velvet Frosting Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: ~230 per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Sugar: 24g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

FAQs

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Re-whip before using.

Why is my frosting too soft?
You may have overmixed or the room is too warm—chill briefly to firm it up.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat is best for consistency, but you can try low-fat with slightly softer results.

Does this frosting hold up well for piping?
Yes, chill slightly for more defined piping shapes.

Can I leave frosted cupcakes at room temperature?
For short periods (2–4 hours), yes. Otherwise, refrigerate due to the cream cheese.

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Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

230

kcal

A rich and smooth cream cheese frosting that’s perfect for red velvet cupcakes or cakes.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2½ to 3 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

  • Pinch of kosher salt (optional)

Directions

  • In a mixer, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy, 2–3 minutes.
  • Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
  • Add sugar gradually, mixing on low, then beat on medium until creamy.
  • Adjust thickness with milk or sugar as needed.
  • Use immediately or chill and re-whip before using.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.