If you’re tired of overly sweet frostings, Russian Buttercream might just become your new favorite. Silky, light, and made with just a few ingredients, this frosting is beloved for its smooth texture and balanced flavor. Unlike traditional American buttercream, it uses sweetened condensed milk for sweetness, resulting in a buttery frosting that’s rich but not cloying. Whether you’re frosting cupcakes or filling a layer cake, this recipe is the perfect choice for home bakers looking for something easy yet impressive. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on how simple and luxurious it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Russian Buttercream recipe checks all the boxes for an easy, crowd-pleasing frosting.

Ultra Creamy: Thanks to the butter and sweetened condensed milk combo, it’s incredibly smooth.
Easy to Make: Just two main ingredients and one bowl—you can’t beat that.
Not Too Sweet: A great alternative for those who find American buttercream overwhelming.
Versatile: Perfect for piping, filling, or simply slathering on cakes.

Once you try Russian Buttercream, you may never go back to store-bought frosting again!

History & Fun Facts About Russian Buttercream

Russian Buttercream may not have centuries of tradition behind it, but it’s a frosting with international appeal.

Eastern European Origins: It’s commonly used in Russian and Ukrainian desserts where rich, less-sugary frostings are the norm.
Two-Ingredient Simplicity: Unlike Swiss or Italian meringue buttercreams, this one doesn’t need eggs or syrups.
Ideal for Beginners: The forgiving texture makes it a great place to start if you’re new to homemade frostings.
Refrigerator-Friendly: It keeps its texture even after chilling, making it excellent for make-ahead desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 can (14 oz or 396g) sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)
Gel food coloring (optional, if decorating cakes)

How to Make Russian Buttercream

Start with Soft Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature—soft but not melted.
Whip the Butter: In a large bowl, beat butter on high speed for about 5–7 minutes until pale and fluffy.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk Slowly: With the mixer on medium speed, gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk.
Scrape the Bowl: Stop halfway to scrape down the sides, then continue mixing until smooth.
Flavor It: Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired.
Color It (Optional): Add gel food coloring a little at a time until you reach your desired shade.
Use Immediately: Russian Buttercream is ready to use. If piping, chill it for 10 minutes to firm up.
Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge.

Russian Buttercream Tips and Twists

Tips:

Always use room-temp butter to avoid lumps.
Beat the butter long enough—it sets the texture.
Chill briefly before piping for firmer consistency.
Avoid overmixing after adding condensed milk.
Taste and adjust sweetness with a dash of lemon juice if desired.

Twists:

Add cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
Mix in freeze-dried fruit powder for a berry-flavored twist.
Swap vanilla for almond or coffee extract.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage:
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating:
Let it sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, then re-whip until smooth.

Make-Ahead:
Make it 1–2 days in advance. Re-whip before using for best texture.

Serving Suggestions: Make It Shine!

Pair your Russian Buttercream with these delightful ideas:

Layer Cakes: It’s perfect between fluffy vanilla or chocolate cake layers.
Cupcakes: Pipe it high for a bakery-style look.
Macarons: Use it as a rich filling for sandwich cookies.
Fruit Tarts: Spread a layer under fresh fruit for an elegant finish.
Cookies: Dollop between two cookies for quick sandwich treats.

FAQ About Russian Buttercream

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the added salt to avoid oversalting.

2. Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw and re-whip.

3. Is it safe for kids?
Absolutely. It’s egg-free and doesn’t use raw ingredients that pose risks.

4. Can I color it with natural dyes?
Yes, beet powder or turmeric can provide subtle natural colors.

5. Can I use vegan butter?
You can, but texture and taste may vary slightly.

Conclusion

Russian Buttercream is one of those hidden gems that transforms simple bakes into something truly special. With its smooth, luxurious texture and mellow sweetness, it’s an easy upgrade from store-bought options. Whether you’re decorating a birthday cake or adding flair to cupcakes, this frosting won’t disappoint. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s a go-to favorite for bakers around the world. So grab your whisk, and let’s make magic—one bowl at a time.

Russian Buttercream Recipe

Russian Buttercream is a rich, smooth frosting that’s perfect for cakes and cupcakes. With just two ingredients, it’s a beginner-friendly choice that whips up fast and pipes beautifully. If you want a less sweet, creamy topping for your desserts, this recipe is a must-try.

Course Dessert

Cuisine European, Russian

Keyword beginner buttercream, cake frosting, condensed milk frosting, easy frosting recipe, Russian Buttercream

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings 12 servings

Calories 180kcal

Author Abby Marlow

Ingredients

1 cup 226g unsalted butter, softened
1 can (14 oz/396g) sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract optional
Pinch of salt optional
Gel food coloring optional

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on high for 5–7 minutes until pale and fluffy.
With the mixer on medium speed, slowly add the sweetened condensed milk.
Stop and scrape the bowl halfway through to ensure even mixing.
Continue beating until smooth and fully combined.
Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired for extra flavor.
For colored frosting, add gel food coloring and mix gently until evenly tinted.
Use the Russian Buttercream immediately or chill slightly for firmer texture.
Store leftovers in the fridge and re-whip before using again.

Notes

For the best texture, make sure the butter is fully softened before whipping. You can flavor Russian Buttercream with cocoa powder or coffee extract for a fun twist.

Nutrition (Per serving — estimated):
Calories: 180
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 11g

Explore More Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for the perfect cake or treat to pair with your Russian Buttercream? Here are a few must-tries:

Try it on this Grilled Chicken Wraps Recipe for a fun savory-sweet fusion.
Use it to frost these tender Best Carrot Cake Cookies—a match made in heaven.
Want something fruity to balance the richness? Try this Strawberry Cream Cake.
For a crowd-pleaser, add it to your Coconut Macaroons.
Or go all out with the decadent Chocolate Fudge Cake.

Happy baking!