Name: Marshmallow Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 cups icing sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 to 3 teaspoons heavy cream; 1 (7-ounce) container marshmallow fluff; Pinch of salt (optional)

Why You’ll Love Marshmallow Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

This frosting brings together the best of both worlds: the structure and richness of buttercream with the airy sweetness of marshmallow fluff. It’s smooth, pipeable, and holds its shape beautifully on cakes or cupcakes. Whether you’re frosting a birthday cake or simply dressing up some cupcakes, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

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

3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups icing sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 to 3 teaspoons heavy cream
1 (7-ounce) container marshmallow fluff
Pinch of salt (optional)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 10 minutes, scraping down the sides occasionally.
Gradually add the sifted icing sugar to the butter, mixing well after each addition until smooth.
Mix in the vanilla extract and add heavy cream, one teaspoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Gently fold in the marshmallow fluff and mix until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
Taste and add a pinch of salt if desired to balance the sweetness.
Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or refrigerate for later use.

Servings and timing

Yield: Approximately 3 cups of frosting
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: Enough to frost 12–18 cupcakes or a 2-layer 8-inch cake

Variations

Chocolate Marshmallow Frosting: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder during the sugar step.
Almond Twist: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty aroma.
Colorful Frosting: Add a few drops of gel food coloring to match your theme or occasion.
Citrus Version: Mix in 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a zesty finish.
Spiced Marshmallow Frosting: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature and beat briefly to restore its fluffy texture. You can also freeze the frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and re-whip before using.

FAQs

What does marshmallow fluff do to buttercream?

Marshmallow fluff lightens the texture of buttercream and adds a sweet, gooey richness that enhances flavor and spreadability.

Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade fluff works just as well, provided it has a similar consistency to store-bought.

Is this frosting stable for piping?

Yes, it holds its shape well and is great for piping swirls or borders on cakes and cupcakes.

Can I make this frosting dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cream or omit it if needed.

How sweet is this frosting?

It’s moderately sweet, with the marshmallow fluff amplifying the sweetness without being overpowering. A pinch of salt helps balance it out.

Will this frosting crust like traditional buttercream?

No, it stays soft and smooth, making it perfect for cakes that won’t sit out for long.

Can I color this frosting?

Absolutely. Gel food coloring works best to maintain the frosting’s texture.

Can I freeze this frosting?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge, then beat to restore texture.

How much cake can this recipe cover?

It will cover a two-layer 8-inch cake or 12–18 cupcakes, depending on how thick you apply it.

Can I use this under fondant?

This frosting is quite soft, so while it can work under fondant, chilling it before applying fondant helps maintain structure.

Conclusion

Marshmallow Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a simple yet luxurious recipe that adds a fluffy, sweet finish to any baked good. With just a few pantry staples and a few minutes, you’ll have a frosting that’s smooth, spreadable, and crowd-approved. Whether you’re topping cupcakes, cakes, or sandwiching cookies, this frosting is sure to become a go-to in your baking rotation.