The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a truly swoon-worthy frosting, look no further than The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream. This recipe delivers a cloud-soft, dreamy texture and just the right hit of sweetness, all while being incredibly simple to whip up. Beloved for its versatility, this buttercream turns cakes, cupcakes, and sandwich cookies into irresistible showstoppers. Whether you’re a buttercream devotee or just craving something new, this is one treat you’ll want to make on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need four easy ingredients to make The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream, and each plays a key role in its dreamy flavor and pillowy structure. Don’t skimp on quality – with so few components, every one truly shines.

• Unsalted butter: This creates the luscious, creamy base that makes the frosting luxuriously smooth.
• Confectioners’ sugar: It sweetens the buttercream and lends a silky consistency that’s a dream to spread or pipe.
• Almond extract: Just a touch deepens the flavor with an aromatic, bakery-style note that sets this frosting apart.
• Marshmallow creme (or fluff): This is the secret to the frothiest, airiest texture—and the signature marshmallow flavor.

How to Make The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream

Step 1: Whip the Butter

Start by placing your softened unsalted butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat it on medium speed for around two minutes, until it’s visibly lighter in both color and texture. This step is your foundation for a perfectly whipped and effortlessly smooth marshmallow buttercream.

Step 2: Add the Almond Extract

Pour in the almond extract and mix until it’s fully incorporated. That tiny bit of extract makes a world of difference, balancing out the sweetness with a sophisticated, nutty aroma that enhances the marshmallow flavor.

Step 3: Gradually Beat in Confectioners’ Sugar

With the mixer on low, add the confectioners’ sugar about half a cup at a time, allowing the sugar to fully blend in before the next addition. Once all of the sugar is added, crank the mixer to high for two to three minutes. This aerates the mixture, giving The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream its signature airy texture.

Step 4: Fold in the Marshmallow Creme

Once everything is beautifully combined, grab a spatula and gently fold in the marshmallow creme by hand. This last step is crucial for maintaining that bouncy, fluffy finish. The end result? A soft, spreadable buttercream that tastes like you whipped up pure clouds.

How to Serve The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream

Garnishes

Dress up your desserts by sprinkling the frosted treats with toasted coconut, colorful sprinkles, or even a pinch of flaky sea salt. A handful of mini marshmallows on top nods to the marshmallow goodness inside and makes any dessert just that much more adorable.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving cakes or cupcakes slathered in The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream at a party, pair them with fresh berries or a tangy fruit salad for a bright contrast. For a decadent dessert tray, offer chocolate-dipped strawberries or buttery shortbread cookies on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Use a piping bag to swirl this buttercream onto cupcakes in playful peaks, or create sandwich cookies by smushing it between two soft chocolate cookies. For a showtime-worthy dessert, layer it between chocolate or vanilla cake rounds and finish with a dramatic swoop of frosting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, just let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore that fluffy texture.

Freezing

The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream freezes well! Scoop it into a freezer-safe container, press a piece of plastic wrap against the surface to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Gently bring refrigerated or thawed buttercream back to room temperature, then use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to fluff it up again. A quick whip brings back all that gorgeous volume and spreadability.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! Just know that salted butter will add a bit more savory depth, so you might want to reduce any added salt in your other baked goods if you use it here.

Is there a substitute for almond extract?

If almond isn’t your favorite, vanilla extract makes a lovely, classic swap. Or, try a splash of coconut or lemon extract for a fun twist on The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream.

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

No stand mixer? No problem! Use a handheld electric mixer for similar results. Just be sure to beat the butter and confectioners’ sugar until very light and fluffy.

Does this frosting hold up well for piping decorations?

Yes! Thanks to the marshmallow creme, The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream pipes beautifully and holds soft but defined shapes—perfect for rosettes, borders, or swirls atop cupcakes.

Can I color or flavor this buttercream?

Definitely. Pastel gel food coloring stirs in easily for gorgeous hues. Try adding zest, cocoa powder, or melted chocolate for custom flavors.

Final Thoughts

Once you try The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream, you’ll want to spread it on absolutely everything—or steal spoonfuls straight from the bowl! If you need a frosting that’s truly unforgettable, give this recipe a go and wow everyone lucky enough to get a taste.

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