Description

This Decadent Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting is a luscious and creamy topping perfect for cakes and cupcakes. Combining smooth cream cheese, rich butter, and cocoa powder, this frosting offers a balanced sweetness with a hint of tanginess, achieving a light and fluffy texture that spreads beautifully or pipes elegantly. It’s easy to make and can be adjusted for the perfect consistency with a touch of milk.

Ingredients

Scale

Cream Cheese Mixture

1 (8-ounce/226g) package cream cheese, softened
¾ cup (170g) butter, softened

Dry Ingredients

1 pound (450g) powdered sugar
⅔ cup (66g) cocoa powder

Additional Flavorings

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
1 tablespoon whole milk (optional, for adjusting consistency)

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Instructions

Cream the butter and cream cheese: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or a large bowl with a handheld mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 3 minutes. This step ensures a light base for the frosting.
Add vanilla and half the sugar: Add the vanilla extract and salt if using. Sift in half of the powdered sugar and beat on low speed for 30 seconds just until combined to prevent sugar from flying out and to avoid overmixing at this stage.
Incorporate remaining sugar and cocoa: Sift in the remaining powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds until combined to incorporate the cocoa evenly. Then increase the speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.
Adjust consistency: If the frosting feels too thick or dry, add whole milk one teaspoon at a time, beating after each addition until the desired consistency is reached. Use the frosting immediately by spreading on cakes or piping onto cupcakes for a smooth and decadent finish.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
Sifting powdered sugar and cocoa powder helps avoid lumps and results in a silky texture.
Use salted or unsalted butter, but adjust salt accordingly.
The frosting can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and re-whip before use.
Optional milk helps achieve a spreadable or pipeable consistency depending on your preference.