If you are looking for a frosting that effortlessly combines rich, velvety texture with a bold coffee kick, the Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dreamy frosting blends creamy butter, powdered sugar, and a punch of espresso to create a luscious topping that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and beyond. Whether you enjoy a coffee twist in your desserts or want to impress guests with a sophisticated flavor, this frosting stands out for its smooth texture, rich taste, and that irresistible aroma that only coffee can bring to the party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the top right corner, there is a large clear glass bowl filled with white powdered sugar, with a powdery texture. Below and slightly to the left, a small clear glass bowl contains creamy white milk or cream, smooth and shiny. To the left of that, another small clear glass bowl holds dark brown instant coffee powder, finely ground. Above it, a tiny clear glass bowl has white salt crystals. Below these, a small clear glass bowl contains clear hot water. On the left side of the image, two rectangular sticks of pale yellow butter with

This Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe calls for a handful of simple but essential ingredients—each one plays a key role in balancing the flavors and achieving that perfect creamy consistency. From the buttery base to the fragrant coffee infusion, every component matters to deliver the ultimate frosting experience.

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Using room temperature butter ensures smooth whipping and a light texture.
3-4 cups powdered sugar: The right amount adds sweetness and body—adjust to taste or desired thickness.
1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder: This provides that deep coffee flavor without extra liquid.
1 tablespoon boiling water: Helps dissolve the coffee powder fully for a rich, smooth infusion.
⅛ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter): Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
2 tablespoons milk or heavy whipping cream (up to ¼ cup if desired): Adds creaminess and adjusts the frosting’s consistency beautifully.

How to Make Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture

Begin by dissolving the instant coffee or espresso powder in the boiling water. This step intensifies the coffee flavor and ensures there are no gritty bits in your frosting. Set it aside to cool slightly while you work on the butter.

Step 2: Cream the Butter

Using a standing mixer or a hand mixer in a large bowl, beat the room temperature butter on medium-high speed for 3 to 5 minutes. You want the butter to become very light and fluffy—a pale yellow hue is a good indicator that it’s perfectly whipped. This will give your frosting a rich texture and volume.

Step 3: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Turn the mixer to low speed and slowly add the powdered sugar. Mix for about 30 to 60 seconds until the sugar starts to combine with the butter and the mixture looks crumbly. Then increase the speed to medium-medium high and beat for 3 to 4 more minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. This step controls the sweetness and texture, so don’t rush it.

Step 4: Add Coffee and Salt

Pour in the dissolved coffee mixture along with the salt (unless you’re using salted butter), then mix on medium speed until everything is fully incorporated. The coffee will add a beautiful mocha tint and that irresistible aroma that makes this frosting truly special.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency with Milk or Cream

Finally, add milk or heavy whipping cream one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. This makes the frosting silky and easy to spread or pipe, depending on how you plan to use it.

How to Serve Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe

A clear glass mixing bowl holds light beige creamy dough with a smooth and soft texture, partially wrapped around the silver mixing paddle of a stand mixer. The dough looks thick and fluffy, sitting in one thick layer at the bottom and on the paddle. The background shows a white marbled surface and soft pink tiles behind. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Decorate your coffee buttercream frosting with a variety of tasty garnishes to give it an extra pop of flavor and texture. Consider sprinkling finely chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, or even crushed espresso beans on top for an elegant finish that complements the coffee essence beautifully.

Side Dishes

This frosting pairs wonderfully with desserts that are either light or richly cakey. Try it on moist chocolate cakes, vanilla cupcakes, or spiced carrot cakes. It also tastes heavenly dolloped on freshly baked pastries or even as a spread on cinnamon rolls for a caffeinated twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond traditional cake frosting? Whip up this Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe and use it as a filling between layers of a layered dessert, pipe it into cream puffs, or dollop it over warm brownies for a gooey, coffee-infused treat. Serving it chilled in small cups with a dusting of cinnamon creates a delightful coffee mousse style dessert too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover coffee buttercream frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about a week and maintain its fresh coffee flavor. Before using, bring it back to room temperature and whip it briefly to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this frosting for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip before spreading.

Reheating

This frosting doesn’t require heating, but if it feels too stiff after refrigeration or freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature until pliable and then beat with a mixer to regain the fluffy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture and melt the butter unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee powder?

While brewed coffee will add flavor, it also adds extra liquid which can mess with the frosting consistency. Instant coffee or espresso powder is best because it dissolves easily without changing the texture.

Is it okay to use salted butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the additional ⅛ teaspoon of salt since salted butter already contains salt. This prevents the frosting from becoming too salty.

Can I make this frosting vegan or dairy-free?

To make this frosting vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free milk such as almond or oat milk. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How do I get a more intense coffee flavor?

If you want a bolder coffee kick, increase the amount of instant coffee powder by half or add a drop of coffee extract. Just be careful not to add too much liquid as it can affect the frosting’s texture.

Can this frosting be piped onto cupcakes?

Absolutely! This Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe is perfect for piping because it holds its shape well once whipped. Adjust the cream or milk quantity to make it stiffer if you plan intricate designs.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about a frosting that offers both creamy decadence and that unmistakable coffee flavor, and this Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe delivers exactly that in every luscious bite. Whether you’re topping a simple cake or creating show-stopping cupcakes, this frosting elevates any dessert to new heights. I absolutely encourage you to give it a try—once you do, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite way to add comfort and sophistication to your baking adventures!