Watermelon Buttercream Frosting

Dolce Flav

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Author:

Dolce Flav

Servings

12

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

0 minutes

This Watermelon Buttercream Frosting is creamy, fluffy, and bursting with natural watermelon flavor thanks to watermelon extract. Perfect for cupcakes, cakes, or cookies, this frosting delivers a fresh, fruity taste and smooth texture that spreads or pipes beautifully. A touch of pink food coloring gives it a fun, summery appearance, making it ideal for birthday cakes, summer parties, or themed desserts. Quick and easy to make, it brings a refreshing watermelon twist to any baked treat.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1–2 teaspoons watermelon extract
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Optional: 2–3 drops pink food coloring for watermelon hue

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Directions

Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter for 2–3 minutes until creamy and pale.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed at first, then medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
Add Flavoring: Mix in watermelon extract and optional vanilla extract. Adjust flavor intensity as desired.
Adjust Consistency: Add heavy cream or milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Add Color: Mix in pink food coloring to achieve a watermelon-like hue.
Add Salt: Include a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
Frost and Decorate: Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Chill for 10 minutes if firmer piping is needed.

Recipe Note

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Name: Watermelon Buttercream Frosting
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 heavy cream or milk; 1–2 teaspoons watermelon extract; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); Pinch of salt; Optional: 2–3 drops pink food coloring for watermelon hue

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 using.

2. Can I freeze this frosting?

Yes — freeze up to 2 months. Thaw and re-whip before frosting.

3. Can I adjust sweetness?

Yes — reduce powdered sugar slightly or add more cream for a less sweet frosting.

4. Can I use salted butter?

Yes — skip the added pinch of salt if using salted butter.

5. Can I make it vegan?

Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk or cream; texture may be slightly softer.

6. Can I pipe this frosting?

Yes — it holds shape well for swirls, rosettes, and borders.

7. Can I fold in sprinkles?

Yes — gently fold in rainbow or themed sprinkles for added texture and fun.

8. How do I make it more watermelon-flavored?

Increase watermelon extract up to 2 teaspoons for a more intense flavor.

9. Can I use it as a filling for layered cakes?

Yes — it’s stable enough for both frosting and filling between cake layers.

10. Can I color it green for a watermelon rind effect?

Yes — use green food coloring in a portion of the frosting to create a two-tone watermelon effect.