Imagine a sunny afternoon where the smell of fresh lemons fills the kitchen, inviting you to indulge in a delightful treat. That’s the feeling I had when I created this Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream. The luscious blend of rich ingredients and bright, zesty notes makes it impossible to resist! This frosting is not only dreamy and velvety but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it an instant favorite at any gathering.
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Two standout benefits of this recipe are its versatility and the unique twist from sweetened condensed milk, which adds a creaminess that sets it apart from traditional buttercreams. It's perfect for frosting cakes, cookies, or even as a dip for fresh fruit.
Are you ready to brighten up your desserts? From a luscious layer on your favorite cake to an exciting flavor twist in a Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting variation, this recipe has it all! Let’s get started and transform your baking game—scroll down for the full recipe!
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Why is Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream so special?
Irresistible flavor: This buttercream combines rich sweetness with a zesty lemon punch that brightens up any dessert.
Ultra creaminess: Thanks to the sweetened condensed milk, your frosting achieves a texture that's delightfully smooth and easy to spread.
Versatile uses: Perfect for frosting cakes, cookies, or even as a dip for fresh fruit, this recipe adapts to all your dessert needs!
Quick and easy: With simple steps, you can whip up this frosting in no time, impressing guests with minimal effort.
Variations galore: Experiment with Lemonade Russian Buttercream or a coffee twist to keep things exciting. For more delightful options, check out my lemon brownie bars recipe to complement your baking adventures!
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will love this sweet, tangy treat, making it the perfect addition to any gathering.
Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream Ingredients
• Dive into making this irresistible frosting!
For the Buttercream
• Unsalted Butter – Ensure it's softened for easy mixing and a rich texture.
• Powdered Sugar – This sweetens the buttercream and provides structure.
• Lemon Extract – A few drops enhance the bright lemon flavor beautifully.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – The secret ingredient that makes this frosting creamy and unique.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness.
• Lemon Zest – Optional but adds fresh, vibrant flavor and a lovely visual appeal.
Feel the excitement of creating your very own Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream and get ready for a delicious experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream
Step 1
Start by placing your softened unsalted butter into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it creates the base for your Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream, ensuring a rich and creamy texture that will help your frosting spread beautifully.
Step 2
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon extract. Continue mixing on low speed to prevent a sugary cloud from forming, and blend for about 3-4 minutes until well combined. The mixture should start to take on a thicker consistency, and the lovely lemon scent will begin to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavor awaiting in your buttercream.
Step 3
Now, it's time to introduce the sweetened condensed milk to your mixture. Add it in tablespoon increments, mixing well after each addition. This step typically takes about 5-7 minutes, allowing the frosting to achieve a silkier consistency. The sweetened condensed milk is what makes this Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream uniquely creamy, setting it apart from traditional frostings.
Step 4
Assess the consistency of your buttercream at this point. If it feels too thick, add a splash more lemon juice for tanginess or an extra tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk to loosen it. If it’s too runny, gradually insert more powdered sugar until you reach your desired thick and spreadable texture. The buttercream should hold its shape yet spread smoothly with a vibrant lemon hue.
Step 5
For an added burst of fresh flavor, (if desired), stir in the lemon zest at this stage. Using a spatula, incorporate the zest slowly into the frosting, making sure it is evenly distributed. This final touch enhances the flavor profile of your Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream and adds a delightful, cheerful speck of color.
Step 6
Your Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream is now ready for use! Spread a generous layer over your cooled cakes or cookies, using a spatula or a piping bag for decorative flair. Take a moment to admire your lovely, fluffy creation before sharing it with family and friends. Enjoy the bright, sunny taste of your delicious frosting on any dessert you cherish!
Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make this frosting uniquely yours!
- Lemonade Russian Buttercream: Substitute powdered sugar with a splash of lemonade for a tangy, airy frosting perfect for summer gatherings.
- Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: Mix in softened cream cheese for a rich, tangy alternative that pairs beautifully with carrot cake or blueberry muffins.
- Coffee-Flavored Twist: Add a couple of tablespoons of instant coffee granules to the buttercream for a delightful mocha flavor that works wonders on chocolate cakes.
- Citrus Medley: Enhance with orange or lime zest for a vibrant, multi-citrus flavor that brightens up your frosting experience.
- Almond Infusion: Swap in almond extract instead of lemon extract for a unique, nutty profile that complements your baked goods beautifully. The flavor contrast will surely surprise your palate!
- Chocolate Delight: Mix melted cocoa powder or chocolate ganache into your buttercream for a luxurious chocolate lemon combo, perfect for decadent desserts.
- Spiced Touch: Spice it up by adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger, giving your buttercream a cozy warmth ideal for fall treats.
- Heat it Up: For a kick, blend in a pinch of cayenne pepper—this surprising heat creates an exciting flavor dimension that pairs well with sweet desserts!
Make Ahead Options
The Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream is a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time on dessert preparations! You can make this luscious frosting up to 3 days in advance. Simply prepare the buttercream according to your recipe, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just give the frosting a good mix to bring back its fluffiness, and if needed, adjust the consistency with a splash of lemon juice or a bit more sweetened condensed milk. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious taste without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream
- Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature; this helps create that fluffy texture and ensures smooth mixing.
- Sift Powdered Sugar: To avoid lumps in your frosting, always sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the butter mixture.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness and tanginess by tasting your buttercream; add more lemon juice or sweetened condensed milk until you’re satisfied.
- Achieve Ideal Consistency: If too thick, add tiny amounts of lemon juice or sweetened condensed milk; if too runny, gradually mix in more powdered sugar.
- Experiment with Flavor: Don’t hesitate to try variations—like a coffee-flavored version—for a fun twist on the classic Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream!
What to Serve with Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this delightful frosting with an array of delicious treats that enhance its zesty flavor.
- Lemon Cake: The tart and sweet notes of a lemon cake provide a harmonious backdrop, allowing the buttercream's brightness to shine through.
- Pound Cake: A rich pound cake's dense texture contrasts beautifully with the airy buttercream, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
- Cookies: Pair with buttery shortbread or sugar cookies for an easy dessert option that balances sweetness and tanginess.
- Cupcakes: Use the buttercream to top vanilla or lemon-flavored cupcakes; the buttercream adds a luscious, festive touch.
- Fruit Tart: A crisp pastry shell filled with custard and topped with fresh berries offers a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy frosting.
- Ice Cream: Serve this buttercream alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet, blending cool creaminess with a zesty kick.
- Coffee: A rich espresso or a cup of lightly sweetened tea provides the perfect balance to the sweetness of your dessert.
- Lemon Bars: Enhance the citrusy essence by pairing the buttercream with tangy lemon bars for a match made in dessert heaven.
- Chocolate Desserts: Pairing with chocolate cake brings a surprising depth—its richness is beautifully offset by the lemon's brightness.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream
Refrigerator: Store your buttercream in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s well-covered to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to keep the buttercream longer, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. This is great for preparing ahead of special occasions!
Thawing: When ready to use, transfer from the freezer to the fridge for about 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature, then whip it briefly to restore its fluffy consistency.
Usage Tip: If your buttercream feels too thick after storage, simply mix in a splash of lemon juice or a bit more sweetened condensed milk to reach your desired spreadability.
Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream Recipe FAQs
Can I add sweetened condensed milk to buttercream?
Absolutely! Sweetened condensed milk adds a unique creaminess and richness to your buttercream, making it smoother and more velvety. It’s particularly useful in this Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream, where it complements the lemon flavor perfectly.
What happens when lemon juice is added to condensed milk?
When lemon juice is added to sweetened condensed milk, it creates a deliciously tangy balance that cuts through the sweetness. In baking, this combination can also help thicken or stabilize mixtures, making it ideal for frostings like our lemon buttercream.
Will condensed milk curdle with lemon?
Not necessarily! Sweetened condensed milk is thick and syrupy, and adding lemon juice should not cause curdling like fresh milk might. However, make sure to mix them well to create a creamy consistency in your frosting.
What does adding sweetened condensed milk do to cake mix?
Adding sweetened condensed milk to cake mix gives it a richer taste and moisture. It can enhance the flavor profile while adding a tender crumb, creating a lusciously soft cake.
Why is my condensed milk buttercream runny?
If your buttercream turns out runny, it could be due to too much liquid in the mix. To fix this, gradually add more powdered sugar until you achieve the right consistency. Allow the frosting to sit for a few minutes; it may thicken as it settles.
What is German buttercream?
German buttercream is a delicious blend that combines butter, milk, and sugar with egg yolks, resulting in a richer, creamier frosting than traditional buttercream. It's an amazing alternative if you're looking to explore different buttercream styles!
Irresistibly Fluffy Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Start by placing your softened unsalted butter into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon extract. Continue mixing on low speed for about 3-4 minutes until well combined.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk to your mixture in tablespoon increments, mixing well after each addition for about 5-7 minutes.
- If the buttercream feels too thick, add a splash more lemon juice or an extra tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk. If it’s too runny, gradually insert more powdered sugar.
- Stir in the lemon zest at this stage, mixing it evenly into the frosting.
- Your Lemon Sweetened Condensed Milk Buttercream is now ready for use! Spread over your cooled cakes or cookies.
Notes
- Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Sift Powdered Sugar: To avoid lumps, sift the powdered sugar before adding to the butter mixture.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness by adding more lemon juice or sweetened condensed milk.
- Achieve Ideal Consistency: Adjust thickness by adding lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- Experiment with Flavor: Try variations like a coffee-flavored version.
