Ingredients
Strawberry Jam
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- A splash of water
Frosting
- 8 tablespoons (4 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Jam: Combine the chopped fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and a splash of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring every few minutes, letting the strawberries reduce to about 1/4 cup. This process takes 20-30 minutes and results in a thick jam-like consistency resembling preserves. Be sure to stir frequently and add water if needed to prevent burning.
- Cool the Strawberry Mixture: Once the strawberry jam is thick and reduced, scrape it out of the saucepan into a separate bowl and allow it to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
- Mix Butter and Cream Cheese: Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is creamy and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Strawberry and Vanilla: Incorporate the cooled strawberry jam and vanilla bean paste into the butter and cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until everything is thoroughly combined and the frosting takes on a uniform pink color.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually stream in the powdered sugar while mixing, beating until the frosting is creamy, smooth, and spreadable without lumps.
- Use or Store: Use immediately on cupcakes, in between cake layers, or place the frosting in a plastic storage bag and freeze for up to 3 months for future use.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to ensure a smooth frosting without lumps.
- Stir the strawberry mixture frequently to avoid burning during reduction.
- If the frosting is too soft, chill it briefly before using to firm up.
- This frosting can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months; thaw completely and re-whip before use.
- Using vanilla bean paste enhances the flavor more than vanilla extract.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert Frosting
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian