Seasoned Vegan Buttercream Frosting
Vegan, gluten-free, grain-free, no bake/raw, nut-free
5 from 1 reviews
Yield
1 1/2 cups (375 mL)
Prep time
5 minutes
Rest time
20 minutes
Cook time
0 minutes
Total time
25 minutes
This frosting brings to mind the essence of a beloved autumn or winter day! Lavishly flavored with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg (often referred to as Pumpkin Pie Spice), this vegan buttercream complements my Pumpkin Gingerbread Loaf splendidly or any of your favorite fall treats. You can prepare it a few days in advance and keep it refrigerated; just allow it to reach room temperature before use, and whip until airy.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) vegan butter, softened*
- 2 to 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, to taste**
- 1 teaspoon (5 mL) pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of fine sea salt or pink salt
- 2 cups (260 g) powdered icing sugar, or more if required
- 1/2 to 1 tablespoon (7.5 to 15 mL) non-dairy milk, if needed
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, incorporate the vegan butter. Using electric beaters, beat the butter on low speed until it appears light and fluffy, for about 30 seconds.
- Into the bowl with the butter, mix in the pumpkin pie spice (begin with 2 teaspoons), vanilla, and a small pinch of salt. Beat on low speed until everything is thoroughly combined, about 15 to 20 seconds.
- If the icing sugar is lumpy, sift it. Add it to the bowl along with 1/2 tablespoon of non-dairy milk. Beat on low speed until the frosting is smooth and airy, around 30 to 45 seconds. If it’s too thick, add a little more non-dairy milk, and briefly mix again with the electric beaters. Sample the mixture and beat in an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Tip:
* Feel free to use any vegan butter you like. Be aware that various brands may have differing water and fat contents, so the final result might vary slightly. You might need to make adjustments to the icing sugar or milk amount used.
** I frequently utilize a full tablespoon (3 teaspoons) of pumpkin pie spice, which yields a strong flavor, but I believe it pairs wonderfully with my Pumpkin Gingerbread Loaf. Depending on your taste, you might prefer to use less spice – add gradually to taste and you can’t go amiss! Store-bought pumpkin pie spice works excellently, or for a homemade approach, see my Pumpkin Pie Spice.
# Seasoned Vegan Buttercream Frosting Recipe – Oh She Glows
In the realm of vegan sweets, one of the most enjoyable elements is a sumptuous, creamy, and flavorful frosting. Whether adorning cupcakes, cakes, or cookies, a well-crafted frosting can enhance your baked creations significantly. One such favored frosting is the **Seasoned Vegan Buttercream Frosting**, inspired by the acclaimed plant-based food blog, *Oh She Glows*. This frosting is not just dairy-free and egg-free; it is also infused with cozy spices that make it ideal for autumn treats or whenever you desire a boost of flavor.
In this piece, we’ll delve into the process of making this delectable seasoned vegan buttercream frosting, the ingredients you’ll require, and some guidance for achieving the optimal texture and taste.
## Why Opt for Vegan Buttercream?
Classic buttercream frosting is typically made with butter and powdered sugar; however, for those adhering to a vegan lifestyle or with dairy sensitivities, a vegan alternative is crucial. Vegan buttercream substitutes dairy butter with plant-based options, and when prepared correctly, it can be just as creamy, fluffy, and delightful as its traditional counterpart.
The *Oh She Glows* take on vegan buttercream elevates it by incorporating warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, making it an exceptional match for spiced cakes, pumpkin treats, or even classic vanilla cupcakes.
## Ingredients for Seasoned Vegan Buttercream Frosting
Here is a compilation of ingredients required to craft this flavorful frosting:
### 1. **Vegan Butter**
– Select a high-quality vegan butter that remains firm and retains its shape at room temperature. Popular brands include Earth Balance or Miyoko’s Creamery. Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, before you begin.
### 2. **Powdered Sugar**
– Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is pivotal for sweetness and structure in the frosting. It contributes to the smooth, creamy texture characteristic of buttercream.
### 3. **Plant-Based Milk**
– A modest quantity of plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk) is included to modify the consistency of the frosting. Begin with a tablespoon and add more as necessary to attain the desired texture.
### 4. **Vanilla Extract**
– Vanilla extract offers a delightful depth of flavor to the frosting. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
### 5. **Ground Cinnamon**
– Cinnamon is the highlight spice in this recipe, imparting a warm, comforting flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with autumnal sweets.
### 6. **Ground Nutmeg**
– Nutmeg lends a subtle, earthy sweetness that complements the cinnamon and enriches the overall spice profile.
### 7. **Ground Ginger**
– Ginger introduces a slight kick to the frosting, balancing sweetness with a hint of warmth and spice.
### 8. **Pinch of Salt**
– A tiny pinch of salt assists in moderating sweetness while enhancing the flavors of the spices.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Cream the Vegan Butter
Begin by placing the softened vegan butter in a sizable mixing bowl. Utilizing a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed for approximately 2-3 minutes until it achieves a light and airy consistency. This step is essential for creating a smooth, fluffy frosting.
### Step 2: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Slowly introduce the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture on low speed. Once all the sugar has been integrated, increase the speed to medium and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes. The consistency of the frosting should be thick yet smooth.
### Step 3: Add the Spices and Vanilla
Now, mix in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract to the frosting. Beat the mixture on low speed until all spices are fully blended in and the frosting emits a warm, spiced fragrance.
### Step 4: Modify the Consistency
If the frosting appears too thick, introduce 1 tablespoon of plant-based milk at a time, beating after each addition, until you achieve your desired consistency. The frosting should be spreadable but not runny.
### Step 5: Taste and Refine
Sample the frosting and make any needed adjustments to the spices or sweetness. If a more pronounced spice flavor is preferred, feel free to incorporate extra cinnamon or nutmeg.
### Step 6: Frost Your Desserts
Once the frosting is perfected, use it to adorn your preferred vegan cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. You can either spread it with a spatula or pipe it using a decorating bag for a more elegant appearance.
## Tips for Perfect Vegan Buttercream
– **Room Temperature Butter**: Ensure your vegan butter is softened to room temperature before starting. If it’s too cold, proper creaming may not occur.