Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

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| Published on:

August 30, 2025

Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and creamy topping that adds a rich flavor to cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, butter, and pure maple syrup, this frosting is not only easy to prepare but also has a unique taste that will impress your friends and family. Its smooth texture and sweet yet slightly tangy flavor make it an excellent choice for everything from carrot cake to banana bread. The addition of maple syrup gives the frosting a warm, comforting twist that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a special event or just want to enjoy a homemade treat, Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is a fantastic addition to your dessert repertoire.

This frosting not only tastes great, but it’s also versatile. You can use it on various baked goods, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simple weeknight baking. Plus, being easy to whip up means you can enjoy this treat whenever the craving strikes!

Why make this recipe

Making Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is a great way to elevate your desserts. The blend of creamy and sweet flavors creates a unique taste that sets your baked goods apart. This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The addition of maple syrup adds warmth and depth, which enhances the overall flavor. It’s a fantastic way to switch up the traditional cream cheese frosting and celebrate seasonal flavors.

How to make Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of fine sea salt

Directions

  1. Allow the cream cheese and butter to come to room temperature so they mix smoothly without lumps.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until light, creamy, and fully blended, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Pour in the maple syrup and vanilla extract, then beat until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
  4. Add 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined. Increase speed to high and continue beating for 2 minutes. Add more powdered sugar a little at a time if a firmer consistency is needed for piping.
  5. Taste the frosting and add a small pinch of fine sea salt to balance the sweetness if needed.
  6. If the frosting is too soft for your intended use, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to firm it up before spreading or piping.

How to serve Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for topping cakes and cupcakes. Spread it generously on carrot cake or use it to fill and frost a layer cake. You can also pipe it on cookies or use it as a dip for fruit. The possibilities are endless! For a festive touch, consider adding sprinkles or nuts on top.

How to store Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using it again, give it a good stir to restore its creamy texture. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze the frosting. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator and stir well before using.

Tips to make Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smoother mixing. If you want a thicker frosting, simply add more powdered sugar. Adjust the sweetness by adding a pinch of salt, which helps balance flavors. If you want more maple flavor, increase the quantity of maple syrup slightly.

Variation

For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the frosting mixture. You can also replace the maple syrup with honey for a different flavor. Experimenting with flavored extracts like almond or maple can add an exciting twist to the frosting.

FAQs

  1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
  2. Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may alter the frosting’s texture.
  3. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
  4. Yes, you can make it a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
  5. How can I make my frosting thicker?
  6. Add more sifted powdered sugar to achieve the desired thickness.
  7. What can I use instead of maple syrup?
  8. You can use honey or vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
  9. Is this frosting suitable for vegan diets?
  10. This recipe contains dairy products, so it is not suitable for vegans. Consider using vegan cream cheese and butter alternatives for a vegan version.
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Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

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A delightful and creamy frosting made with cream cheese, butter, and pure maple syrup, perfect for topping cakes and cupcakes.

  • Author: Patricia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 cups 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of fine sea salt

Instructions

  1. Allow the cream cheese and butter to come to room temperature.
  2. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until light and creamy (2 to 3 minutes).
  3. Pour in the maple syrup and vanilla extract, then beat until fully incorporated.
  4. Add 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined; increase speed and beat for 2 minutes.
  5. Taste the frosting and add a pinch of fine sea salt if needed.
  6. If too soft, chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before using.

Notes

For thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar. Adjust sweetness with a pinch of salt.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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