Name: Easy Maple Frosting
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pure maple syrup; 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative); 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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If you're looking for a quick and delicious frosting to elevate your desserts, this Easy Maple Frosting is the perfect choice. Made with just four simple ingredients, it’s naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup for a warm, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with cakes, cupcakes, or brownies. It’s a smooth and creamy delight that will make your baked treats even more irresistible.

Easy Maple Frosting

Ingredients

1 cup pure maple syrup

½ cup softened unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative)

2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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

Directions

In a large bowl, I beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.

Gradually, I drizzle in the maple syrup while the mixer runs, ensuring the mixture combines smoothly.

I reduce the mixer speed to low and add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined.

Then, I add the vanilla extract and increase the mixer speed to medium-high, whipping for about 2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and pipeable.

If the frosting is too thin, I add a bit more powdered sugar; if it's too thick, I splash in some milk (dairy or plant-based).

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: ~12

Calories: 140 kcal per 2-Tbsp serving

Variations

Maple Buttercream: For a richer version, I sometimes substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a tangy twist.

Dairy-Free: I often make this frosting dairy-free by swapping the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and using plant-based milk if needed.

Flavored Frosting: Occasionally, I add a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of salt for a little extra flavor complexity.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store any leftover maple frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If it becomes too firm after chilling, I let it sit at room temperature for a bit or briefly whip it again to restore its creamy consistency.

Reheating: If the frosting gets too thick, I add a small splash of milk and gently re-whip to get it back to the desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this frosting in advance?

Yes! I often make this frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later use. Just be sure to let it warm up a little before frosting, and give it a quick whip to bring back the fluffiness.

Can I use maple extract instead of syrup?

I prefer using pure maple syrup for its authentic flavor, but in a pinch, maple extract can be used. I would recommend using a smaller amount, as extracts can be more concentrated.

Can I use brown sugar instead of powdered sugar?

While brown sugar could give the frosting a slightly different flavor, I find that powdered sugar creates the best texture and sweetness for frosting. Brown sugar might make it too granular.

How do I make this frosting pipeable?

To get the frosting pipeable, I simply whip it for a little longer, ensuring it’s light and fluffy. If it’s still too runny, adding a touch more powdered sugar helps to firm it up.

Can I make this frosting without butter?

Yes! I’ve made this frosting without butter by using a dairy-free alternative. The result is just as creamy, and it’s perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.

Conclusion

This Easy Maple Frosting is the perfect way to add a unique twist to your favorite desserts. Whether you’re topping a cake, cupcakes, or brownies, the rich, natural sweetness of maple syrup creates a delightful frosting that’s simple to make and wonderfully versatile. It’s quick, delicious, and sure to be a hit every time!

Recipe:

Easy Maple Frosting

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: ~12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Maple Frosting is a quick, creamy, and naturally sweetened frosting made with just four simple ingredients, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and brownies.

Ingredients

1 cup pure maple syrup

½ cup softened unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative)

2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Instructions

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
Gradually drizzle in the maple syrup while the mixer runs, ensuring the mixture combines smoothly.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined.
Add the vanilla extract and increase the mixer speed to medium-high, whipping for about 2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and pipeable.
If the frosting is too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar; if it's too thick, splash in some milk (dairy or plant-based).