Name: Strawberry Buttercream Icing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries, blended); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk; Pinch of salt

Strawberry Buttercream Icing is one of those recipes that instantly makes baking feel a little more joyful. Light, fluffy, and beautifully pink, this frosting delivers a fresh strawberry flavor that tastes like it came straight from a bakery case—but it’s made right in your own kitchen. The texture is smooth and airy, the color is naturally rosy, and the flavor is fruity without being too sweet or overpowering.

I first made this Strawberry Buttercream Icing on a spring afternoon when I wanted something brighter and fresher than chocolate. The moment I tasted it, I knew it was a keeper. It had that soft, cloud-like texture I love in a good buttercream, paired with a real strawberry taste that felt both nostalgic and special. Best of all, it came together in about 10 minutes, no fancy techniques or tools required.

This recipe is completely beginner-friendly, making it perfect if you’re new to frosting or just want something quick and reliable. It spreads effortlessly over cakes, pipes beautifully onto cupcakes, and adds a lovely finishing touch to cookies. With foolproof steps and simple ingredients, you’ll get a bakery-style finish at home every single time—no stress, just delicious results.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Buttercream Icing

Naturally Sweet Strawberry Flavor

What makes this frosting truly shine is the use of real strawberry puree instead of artificial flavoring. Fresh or frozen strawberries are blended into a smooth puree, giving the icing a genuine fruity taste and natural color. The result is a bright, fresh strawberry flavor that’s sweet but balanced, never fake or overwhelming.

Light, Fluffy, and Perfectly Spreadable

This Strawberry Buttercream Icing is whipped until light and airy, creating a creamy texture that’s easy to work with. It spreads smoothly over cakes, pipes beautifully onto cupcakes, and holds its shape without feeling heavy. Whether you’re swirling frosting or smoothing it flat, it behaves exactly how you want it to.

Simple Ingredients You Already Have

You don’t need anything fancy to make this recipe. The ingredients are pantry-friendly and easy to find, which means no last-minute store runs. With basic baking staples and a handful of strawberries, you can create a frosting that tastes impressively homemade with minimal effort.

Easy to Customize for Any Dessert

One of the best things about this icing is how flexible it is. You can adjust the thickness, add extra flavor, or tweak it to suit whatever you’re baking. It works beautifully on cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and even macarons, making it a versatile go-to frosting for any occasion.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients & Their Roles

Unsalted butter – This is the base of the frosting, creating richness, structure, and that classic buttery flavor. Make sure it’s fully softened so it whips up light and fluffy.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the icing while also helping it hold its shape. Sifting the sugar is important to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
Strawberry puree – Adds fresh strawberry flavor and a naturally pink color. You can use fresh or frozen strawberries; just blend them until smooth.
Vanilla extract – Enhances and rounds out the sweetness, adding warmth and depth to the flavor.
Heavy cream or milk – Used to control the consistency of the icing. Add a little at a time until the frosting reaches your desired texture.
Salt – A small pinch makes a big difference, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the strawberry flavor.

Helpful tips:

Fresh strawberries give the brightest flavor, but frozen work just as well when fresh aren’t in season.
Softened butter is key for a smooth, fluffy result—too cold and the icing won’t whip properly.
Always sift your powdered sugar to keep the frosting silky and professional-looking.

This simple combination comes together to create a frosting that’s easy, reliable, and absolutely delightful.

How to Make Strawberry Buttercream Icing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Beat the butter until fluffy
Start with softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat it on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until it looks pale, creamy, and airy. This step sets the foundation for light, fluffy frosting, so don’t rush it. If the butter still looks yellow or dense, keep mixing—air is your friend here.
Gradually add powdered sugar
With the mixer on low speed, add the powdered sugar a little at a time. This helps prevent lumps and keeps sugar clouds from taking over your kitchen. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything blends smoothly and evenly.
Add strawberry puree and vanilla
Pour in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined. About ¼ cup of puree is ideal—it adds plenty of flavor and color without making the icing runny. If your strawberries are especially juicy, you can start with slightly less and add more if needed.
Adjust consistency with cream or milk
Add heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until the icing reaches your desired consistency. For piping, you’ll want it thick but smooth. For spreading, a slightly softer texture works best. Go slowly—just a little liquid makes a big difference.
Finish with salt and final whip
Add a pinch of salt, then beat the icing on medium-high speed for 1–2 minutes. This final whip makes the frosting extra airy and helps all the flavors come together beautifully. If the icing ever feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before using.

What to Serve with Strawberry Buttercream Icing

Best Desserts to Pair With It

Vanilla cupcakes – A classic pairing that lets the fresh strawberry flavor shine.
Chocolate layer cake – The rich cocoa flavor balances perfectly with fruity sweetness.
Sugar cookies – Soft, buttery cookies provide the ideal canvas for this frosting.
Lemon cake – Bright citrus and strawberry are a naturally delicious combination.
Strawberry shortcake – Layered with fresh berries, this icing adds extra indulgence.
Sandwich cookies – Spread between cookies for a bakery-style treat at home.

Each of these desserts highlights a different side of the frosting, from its light texture to its fresh, fruity flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Dairy-Free or Vegan Strawberry Buttercream

To make this frosting dairy-free, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative that’s designed for baking. Use non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk to adjust consistency. The result is still creamy, fluffy, and full of strawberry flavor—perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.

Extra Strawberry Flavor Boost

If you love an intense strawberry taste, try adding freeze-dried strawberry powder. It packs bold flavor without adding extra moisture. Another option is reducing the strawberry puree slightly on the stovetop before adding it, which concentrates the flavor while keeping the frosting thick and stable.

Less Sweet or Low-Sugar Option

For a less sweet version, slightly reduce the powdered sugar and balance the flavor with a touch more salt or vanilla. You can also lean on strawberry powder or puree for flavor so the frosting still tastes vibrant without being overly sugary.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature Storage

Strawberry Buttercream Icing can safely sit at room temperature for a short period, making it convenient when you’re decorating or serving desserts. It’s best enjoyed within 4–6 hours in a cool, dry space, away from direct heat or sunlight. This window keeps the frosting light, fluffy, and easy to work with while maintaining its fresh strawberry flavor.

Refrigeration Tips

If you need to store the icing longer, refrigeration is the way to go. Transfer the Strawberry Buttercream Icing to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature, then re-whip it for about a minute to restore its creamy, airy texture. A quick whip brings it right back to life.

Freezing Strawberry Buttercream Icing

This frosting freezes beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead baking. Store it in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature and re-whip until smooth and fluffy. It’s just as delicious as freshly made.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use room-temperature butter for the smoothest, fluffiest texture.
Don’t over-add strawberry puree—too much can make the icing runny.
Beat the frosting a little longer if you want extra lightness and volume.
Add powdered sugar slowly so you can control sweetness and texture.
Always taste and adjust the salt to balance the sweetness perfectly.

If you’re new to frosting, don’t worry—this recipe is forgiving and easy to fix. A quick chill or re-whip can solve most issues.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Strawberry Buttercream Icing, you might enjoy these other sweet treats from Creative Cookery—each one pairs beautifully with fruity or classic frostings:

Strawberry Cupcakes – Soft, moist cupcakes that are the perfect base for strawberry buttercream.
Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream – Rich and chocolatey, creating a delicious contrast with fresh strawberry frosting.
Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes – A berry-forward dessert that complements strawberry buttercream beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberry Buttercream Icing?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh. Simply thaw them completely and blend into a smooth puree before using.

Why is my Strawberry Buttercream Icing runny?

This usually happens from too much puree or liquid. Add more powdered sugar or chill the icing briefly, then re-whip to fix the texture.

Can I make Strawberry Buttercream Icing ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make it a few days ahead and refrigerate it, or freeze it for longer storage. Just re-whip before using.

Can I pipe Strawberry Buttercream Icing?

Yes! For piping, keep the icing slightly thicker. Add liquid slowly and stop once it holds its shape well.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can, but skip the added salt and taste as you go to avoid over-salting.

Conclusion

Strawberry Buttercream Icing is everything you want in a homemade frosting—fresh, fluffy, and wonderfully easy to make. With its natural strawberry flavor, light texture, and quick 10-minute prep, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you’re frosting cupcakes, layering a cake, or sandwiching cookies, this icing delivers bakery-style results without the fuss. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own.

Leave a comment below and tell me what you frosted with this Strawberry Buttercream Icing!
Pin this recipe for later and keep a little sweetness ready whenever inspiration strikes. 🍓