Maple Frosting for Donuts & Cakes

Dolce Flav

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Author:

Dolce Flav

Servings

12

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

0 minutes

This Maple Frosting is a creamy, smooth, and rich topping infused with maple extract or real maple syrup, perfect for donuts, cakes, cupcakes, and other baked treats. Its naturally sweet, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with both chocolate and vanilla bases, adding a touch of autumnal warmth to desserts. Quick to make and easy to pipe or spread, this frosting gives a bakery-style finish at home. Optional milk or heavy cream can be added to adjust the consistency, making it ideal for both soft spreading and decorative piping.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2–3 tablespoons maple extract or real maple syrup
2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt

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Directions

Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat softened butter for 2–3 minutes until creamy and pale.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low at first, then medium until smooth and fluffy.
Add Flavoring: Mix in maple extract or real maple syrup, vanilla extract (optional), and a pinch of salt.
Adjust Consistency: Add milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until frosting reaches desired spreading or piping consistency.
Frost Desserts: Use immediately to frost cooled donuts, cakes, or cupcakes. Frosting can be piped, spread, or drizzled.
Optional Topping: Sprinkle with chopped nuts, cinnamon, or a light drizzle of additional maple syrup for a professional finish.

Recipe Note

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Name: Maple Frosting for Donuts & Cakes
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 2–3 tablespoons maple extract or real maple syrup; 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); Pinch of salt

1. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes — store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Re-whip before use.

2. Can I freeze maple frosting?

Yes — freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and re-whip before frosting.

3. Can I use only maple syrup instead of extract?

Yes — use real maple syrup for natural sweetness and authentic flavor.

4. Can I make this frosting vegan?

Yes — use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.

5. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes — reduce powdered sugar slightly or increase maple syrup for a stronger flavor.

6. Can I pipe this frosting?

Yes — it holds shape well for piping swirls, rosettes, or decorative designs.

7. Can I use it on cookies?

Yes — it works well as a soft glaze or piped decoration on cookies.

8. How can I make it more maple-forward?

Increase maple extract or drizzle extra maple syrup over the frosting.

9. Can I add spices?

Yes — cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of allspice complements the maple flavor beautifully.

10. How should I store frosted baked goods?

Store at room temperature for 1–2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container.