Creamy Coffee Buttercream Frosting
Table of Contents
The creamy Coffee Buttercream Frosting combines the rich flavor of coffee with a creamy, fluffy texture. This sweet coffee frosting is perfect for cakes and cupcakes, and it’s incredibly simple to make. Using just three ingredients, this homemade coffee buttercream frosting is an easy recipe that’s also gluten-free and family-friendly.
While this coffee buttercream frosting is a first-time recipe, its simplicity makes it an easy choice for dessert enthusiasts. Made with everyday ingredients, it offers a delightful coffee flavor in every bite. Expect a frosting that is both visually appealing and delicious. This frosting is versatile enough to complement various desserts, making it a great addition to any occasion.
For more delicious buttercream frosting recipes including the vanilla buttercream frosting, check out the American Buttercream Frosting, the Classic White Layer Cake, the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting, and all-time favorite, the Chocolate Cake – Triple Layer
Food history junkie? Get the skinny about the history of buttercream
Why we love ☕🍰 this coffee buttercream frosting
- It’s perfect for piping, creating beautiful decorations on cakes and cupcakes
- This frosting is easy to make with just three simple ingredients.
- The silk smooth and creamy texture ensures every bite is delightful.
- Quick to prepare, it’s a great last-minute addition to any baking project.
Enjoy this versatile frosting that pairs well with various flavors and looks stunning on any dessert!
🥄What kitchenware you need to make this coffee buttercream frosting
- 1 large mixing bowl
- measurement cups
- Hand Mixer (or a stand mixer fitted)
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📝Ingredients to make this recipe
- Unsalted butter: room temperature, for a smooth and creamy base
- Powdered sugar: adds sweetness and smooth texture
- Ground coffee: adds the rich coffee flavor (and water to dissolve the instant coffee granules)
These simple ingredients make a delicious coffee frosting recipe for your desserts.
🕓Instructions: How to make coffee buttercream frosting



The buttercream is ready for frosting your favorite baked goods when it has a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Check the recipe card below for full instructions!
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FAQs about Coffee Buttercream Frosting
What type of butter should I use in this coffee buttercream recipe?
Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. American butter has less fat, making the frosting softer and lighter. European butter, higher in fat, gives a richer taste and off-white color. Brands like Kerrygold and Plugra are excellent choices. The key is to use softened butter at room temperature.
What type of 🍚sugar should I use for this easy coffee buttercream frosting recipe?
We used powdered sugar for this recipe. Powdered sugar is in reality granulated sugar that has been ground into a fine powder. Confectioners’ sugar is powdered sugar with added cornstarch. For buttercream frosting and icing, you can use either powdered or confectioners’ sugar as you get the same results. Confectioners’ sugar is better for dusting Christmas cookies as it does not melt away.
What temperature should the butter be?
Make sure that your butter is at room temperature, around 68-70 degrees F. It should be soft enough to press a finger through without force. Too soft, and the frosting will lack structure; too firm, and it will have lumps.
How should I store coffee buttercream frosting?
Store at room temperature for up to 24 hours, though refrigeration is better. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature before remixing.
Can I make coffee buttercream frosting ahead of time?
You can make coffee buttercream frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 7 days. Let come to room temperature and mix before using.
What types of coffee I should use for this recipe?
We used instant coffee dissolved completely with water to avoid graininess in the buttercream. You can use espresso powder coffee if you wish. And for a more grown-up, elevated flavor, substitute two tablespoons of coffee liqueur for the instant coffee mix.
How can I use this buttercream frosting?
This coffee buttercream frosting is perfect for layer cakes, in particular for rich chocolate or coffee cakes. Add buttercream between the layers, on top, and on the sides. In addition, you can decorate cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and everything else you wish. Be creative and playful!
📖RECIPE CARD

Creamy Coffee Buttercream Frosting
Equipment
- measurement cups
Ingredients
- 8 ounces powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened room temperature
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Beat the butter until smooth with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes
- Add the powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until combined
- Pour in the coffee and continue mixing until well combined
- Increase the speed to high and beat frosting for about 3-4 minutes until fluffy
Notes
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting to create a creamy base
- When the frosting has a smooth, spreadable consistency, it is ready for frosting your favorite baked goods!
