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.
Jump to RecipeIna 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)

How To Make Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe
- 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.
- Add vanilla and salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.

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

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.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Peach Pie Recipe
- Ina Garten Baked Chocolate Pudding Recipe
- Ina Garten Orange Pound Cake Recipe
Ina Garten Red Velvet Frosting Recipe
Course: DessertsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings10
minutes230
kcalA 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.
