This rich and creamy chocolate cream cheese frosting is my favourite! The cream cheese is the secret ingredient that makes people stop and get curious about “what makes this frosting different?” I love this frosting! Made with just cream cheese, butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar, it’s smooth, stable, and easy to spread or pipe onto cupcakes, cakes, brownies, or even cinnamon rolls.
Firstly! If you’re also needing an amazing chocolate cupcake recipe to go along with this, look no further than my go-to recipe for moist and decadent chocolate cupcakes
Why Add Cream Cheese to Frosting?
Cream cheese adds tangy richness, a thick texture, and stability to frosting. It’s the secret ingredient that makes frostings shine!
What Makes Cream Cheese Frosting So Good?
- Flavor: The subtle tang balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Texture: Smooth, creamy, and easy to spread or pipe.
- Stability: High fat content keeps it firm and in place—great for decorating.
- Versatility: Works on cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting!
There really is nothing to it! Whip together softened cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the cocoa powder and mix to combine. Done in minutes!
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use full-fat cream cheese – Low-fat or spreadable types can make the frosting too soft.
- Bring ingredients to room temperature – This ensures a smooth blend.
- Don’t overbeat – Overmixing can make it runny; stop when it’s smooth and fluffy.
- Add extra flavour – A splash of vanilla extract enhances the taste.
Common Questions
Why add butter?
Butter gives the frosting structure and makes it easier to spread. Use unsalted butter, as cream cheese already has some salt.
How to fix runny cream cheese frosting?
Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If still too soft, beat in more cream cheese.
How to Prevent Lumps?
Add softened butter gradually to cold cream cheese, mixing slowly to combine smoothly.
How Far will this cream cheese frosting go?
One batch is enough to:
- Generously frost 12–14 cupcakes (piped tall swirls)
- Lightly frost 18–20 cupcakes (spread with a knife)
- Cover the top and sides of a single-layer 8- or 9-inch cake
- Fill and frost a 2-layer 8-inch cake if you go for a thinner coat
Chocolate Frosting with Cream Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes- Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 18–20 Cupcakes (lightly frosted) 1x
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Pin RecipeDescription
This rich and creamy chocolate cream cheese frosting is my favourite! The cream cheese is the secret ingredient that makes people love this frosting! Made with just cream cheese, butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar, it’s smooth, stable, and easy to spread or pipe onto cupcakes, cakes, brownies, or even cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients
- 250g cream cheese (8 oz)
- ½ cup butter (115g / 4 oz)
- 3 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence or ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup cocoa powder
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together with an electric handheld or stand mixer until smooth and creamy, with no visible lumps.
- Add the icing sugar (sift first if lumpy) and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
- Add the cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated.
- Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then give the mixture one final quick mix.
- Frost cakes or cupcakes only once they’re completely cool to the touch.
If you loved this chocolate frosting, you may also love this Nutella Buttercream Icing recipe too
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