Old Fashioned Vanilla Frosting
A classic vanilla frosting with gentle sweetness and the familiar richness of an old-fashioned layer cake. Vanilla takes the lead, with the option of almond extract for that nostalgic bakery-style finish. Homestead Sweetener keeps it balanced rather than overly sweet, letting the butter and cream remain part of the flavor.
A simple frosting for birthday cakes, afternoon cupcakes, and all the cakes that don't need much fussing over.
FORAGE BAKER'S NOTES
Butter or Shortening. Soft butter creates a richer, more traditional frosting, while palm shortening offers a slightly different texture and a more neutral base for the vanilla and almond.
Soft Butter Matters. If using butter, allow it to soften before mixing so the frosting can whip smoothly and become fluffy.
Vanilla & Almond. Vanilla gives this frosting its classic character. The optional almond extract adds a nostalgic bakery-style note and can be omitted for a pure vanilla frosting.
Sweeteners Matter Too. Homestead Sweetener provides sweetness without overwhelming the delicate flavors of vanilla, butter, and cream, creating a frosting that feels rich and familiar without becoming excessively sweet.
- Homestead Sweetener: 140g per cup (1:1 sugar replacement by volume)
- Granulated Sugar: 200g per cup
YIELD
- Frosts approximately 12 cupcakes
- Enough for two 6- to 8-inch cakes
INGREDIENTS
1½ cups Homestead Sweetener (210g)
1 cup soft butter or palm shortening (220g)
4 tablespoons half-and-half or cream (60g)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons almond extract, optional
Pinch of sea salt, unless using salted butter
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine the Base
Add the butter or shortening, half-and-half or cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using to a medium-size bowl.
Add the Sweetener & Whip
Sprinkle in the Homestead Sweetener and use a handheld or stand mixer to whip until fluffy.
For Warm Days
If it’s a very warm day, refrigerate the frosting until cool enough to whip.
FROM THE FORAGE KITCHEN
Made with Homestead Sweetener—crafted to organic standards for gentle sweetness and an old-fashioned frosting where vanilla, butter, and cream are allowed to remain at the center.
