This Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting is a dreamy blend of rich cocoa and velvety cream cheese, perfect for elevating any dessert. Its smooth, luscious texture spreads effortlessly, creating a decadent finish for cupcakes or layer cakes. With just 10 minutes of prep, it’s a quick yet indulgent way to add a touch of luxury to your baking. The balance of tangy cream cheese and deep chocolate flavor is irresistible, making every bite unforgettable.
Whether you’re frosting a birthday cake or topping a batch of cupcakes, this recipe delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The creamy consistency melts in your mouth, while the subtle sweetness complements the richness of the chocolate. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, ensuring your desserts are always the star of the show.
Ingredients for Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened (ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened (use brick-style, not spreadable, for best results)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure extract recommended for better flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
- 3 ½ cups (440 g) powdered sugar* (sift if lumpy for smoother frosting)
- ½ cup (65 g) natural cocoa powder (unsweetened for rich chocolate flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine butter and cream cheese: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until creamy, well-combined, and free of lumps.
- Add vanilla and salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add powdered sugar: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing until completely combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Incorporate cocoa powder: Add the cocoa powder and beat on medium speed until the frosting is smooth and well-combined. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure no dry pockets remain.
- Use immediately: Frost your completely cooled cake or cupcakes with the prepared frosting. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: What to Frost with This Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
This rich and creamy frosting is a dream on classic chocolate cupcakes or a decadent chocolate cake. It also pairs beautifully with vanilla or red velvet cakes for a delightful contrast. For a fun twist, try it on cinnamon rolls or brownies for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Frosting Fresh
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes and give it a quick whip with your mixer to restore its creamy texture. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and re-whip before using.
Recipe Variations: Customize Your Frosting
For a mocha twist, add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the cocoa powder. If you prefer a lighter flavor, swap the natural cocoa powder for Dutch-processed cocoa. For a hint of spice, mix in a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to complement the chocolate.
Time-Saving Tips: Make It Even Easier
To speed things up, ensure your butter and cream cheese are truly softened—leave them out for 30 minutes before starting. Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for hands-free mixing. If you’re in a rush, sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder together beforehand to avoid lumps and save time.
Equipment Guidance: Tools for the Best Results
A stand mixer or hand mixer is essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined. For piping, a large piping bag with a star tip works beautifully for decorating cupcakes or cakes.
Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese softened brick-style, not spreadable
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar*
- ½ cup natural cocoa powder
Instructions
- Combine the butter and cream cheese in a large bowl and, using an electric mixer or a stand mixer to beat until creamy, well-combined, and lump-free.
- Add vanilla extract and salt and stir well to combine.
- With mixer on low, gradually add powdered sugar until completely combined.
- Add cocoa powder and beat until well-incorporated into the frosting — be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl so that all ingredients are well-combined.
- Frost completely cooled cake or cupcakes.