Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting (Russian Buttercream)

Introduction

Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting, also known as Russian Buttercream, is a luscious and creamy frosting that transforms any cake or cupcake into a decadent treat. This unique frosting is less sweet than traditional buttercream, making it a favorite among those who prefer a subtler sweetness and a rich, buttery flavor. The addition of sweetened condensed milk provides a smooth texture that is both easy to work with and delightful to taste.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless frosting recipes out there, but Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting stands out for its remarkable texture and flavor. It blends beautifully with a variety of cake styles—whether you’re crafting a rich chocolate cake or a light lemon sponge. Not only is this buttercream simple to make, but it also holds up well under fondant, making it a great choice for both home baking and professional cake decorating. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and often already found in your pantry, making it an accessible option for bakers of all levels.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature, see notes if using salted butter)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
¼ tsp salt (optional)

Directions:

Using a whip attachment with a standing mixer or handheld mixer with a large bowl, whip softened butter on high for about 10 minutes until very pale, light, and fluffy. It should almost triple in size. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed to ensure all the butter is whipped.
Once the butter has been whipped, slowly add the sweetened condensed milk in 3 or 4 additions, mixing in between each addition and scraping down the bowl with a spatula as needed. Watch the consistency and flavor; you do not need to add the entire 14 oz can if you’re happy with the texture and taste.
If the buttercream looks separated or curdled, place it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes and then re-whip. It should come back together into a smooth frosting.
Mix in optional vanilla and salt, and it’s ready to use on your favorite cakes and cupcakes.

How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting

This frosting can be generously spread on top of cakes, layered between fluffy cupcakes, or even piped into intricate designs for a touch of elegance. Pair it with a simple vanilla or chocolate cake to balance out the sweetness, or try it on banana or carrot cake for a delightful twist.

How to Store Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature and then re-whip for optimal texture. If planning to frost a cake in advance, simply cover the cake and store it in the fridge; the frosting will keep beautifully.

Tips to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier whipping and a consistent texture.
Continuously scrape down the bowl while mixing to gather all the butter and ensure even incorporation.
Taste as you go! You can always add more sweetened condensed milk for a creamier consistency or adjust the vanilla and salt to suit your preference.

Variation

For a chocolate twist, add unsweetened cocoa powder after the butter is whipped, starting with 1/4 cup and adjusting to taste. Alternatively, fold in some crushed berries or citrus zest for a refreshing flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you may want to omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting the frosting.

2. What can I use this frosting on?
This frosting pairs well with various desserts including cakes, cupcakes, and even cookies. It’s particularly delicious on chocolate or vanilla cakes.

3. Will this frosting hold up in warm temperatures?
Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting can hold up reasonably well in warm conditions, but it’s best kept cool until serving, especially in hot weather. Consider refrigerating the frosted cake if you’re in a warm environment.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Frosting

A luscious and creamy frosting that transforms any cake or cupcake into a decadent treat, with a subtler sweetness and rich, buttery flavor.

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Serving Size batch

Ingredients

Main ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) See notes if using salted butter.
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
¼ tsp salt (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

Using a whip attachment with a standing mixer or handheld mixer, whip softened butter on high for about 10 minutes until very pale, light, and fluffy.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk in 3 or 4 additions, mixing between each addition.
Scrape down the bowl with a spatula as needed and watch the consistency and flavor.
If the buttercream looks separated or curdled, place it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes and then re-whip.
Mix in optional vanilla and salt before using.

Serving

Spread the frosting generously on top of cakes, layer it between cupcakes, or pipe into intricate designs.

Storage

Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Allow it to come to room temperature and then re-whip for optimal texture when ready to use.

Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier whipping. Continuously scrape down the bowl while mixing for even incorporation. Taste as you go to adjust sweetness.