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The BEST Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting (Sweet & Fluffy!)

Discover a light, airy, and incredibly fluffy marshmallow buttercream frosting that's super easy and quick to make. Perfect for topping cakes and cupcakes, it delivers pure sweet, dreamy heaven in every bite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Dessert, Frosting
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks / 227 g, softened
  • 4 cups confectioners' sugar powdered sugar or icing sugar
  • 0.5 tsp almond extract or vanilla extract
  • 2 jars marshmallow creme or fluff 7 ounces each (14 ounces total)

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer
  • Hand mixer
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In the bowl of a stand mixer (or large bowl with a hand mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula if needed.
  2. Step 2: Add the ½ teaspoon of almond extract (or vanilla) and mix for 15-30 seconds until just combined.
  3. Step 3: Gradually beat in the confectioners' sugar, about a ½ cup at a time, starting on low speed to avoid a mess, then increasing slightly to incorporate. Once all 4 cups are added, increase the speed to high and beat for another 2-3 minutes until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
  4. Step 4: Gently fold the two jars of marshmallow creme into the buttercream by hand using a spatula until fully incorporated and the frosting is soft and wonderfully fluffy. Do not use the electric mixer for this step.
  5. Step 5: Use the marshmallow buttercream immediately to frost your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or for other uses like fillings or dips.

Notes

Substitutions & Additions: Swap almond extract for vanilla, maple, coconut, or peppermint extract. For chocolate marshmallow frosting, gently fold in about ½ cup of melted and slightly cooled semi-sweet chocolate chips with the marshmallow creme. Use gel food coloring to tint the frosting.
Tips for Success: Ensure butter is truly softened (not melted). Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl frequently. Do not overmix after adding the marshmallow creme; fold by hand to maintain fluffiness. You can make the frosting ahead of time.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature (1-2 hours) and re-whip before using. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge, bring to room temp, and re-whip.