Frosting for two cupcakes: here’s a simple, single-serving vanilla buttercream that’s quick to make and perfect for when you only need a couple of cupcakes.
If you need a two-cupcake cake recipe to pair with this frosting, try the Vanilla Cupcakes for Two recipe from How Sweet Eats. They’re small, sweet, and delicious.
When I first tried Jessica’s cupcakes-for-two years ago, I wanted a matching buttercream made in the same small batch. This recipe uses classic American buttercream ingredients—unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk—scaled to frost two cupcakes (with maybe a little extra for spoon-licking).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a standard buttercream frosting recipe?
Yes. I have a full homemade buttercream frosting recipe that makes enough for about a dozen cupcakes. Homemade buttercream takes a little extra time, but the flavor and texture are worth it compared with store-bought frosting.
Why make just two cupcakes?
Making only two cupcakes is great when ingredients are limited, you want a smaller treat, or you don’t want a dozen sweets around tempting you. It’s the perfect portion when you just want a taste without committing to a full batch.
Why isn’t the buttercream fluffy?
If you mix this small batch by hand with a fork, it won’t be as aerated as buttercream whipped in a stand or hand mixer. You’ll also likely spread the frosting with a spoon rather than piping it, but the flavor is the same—just a denser texture. Make sure everything is well mixed and avoid adding too much milk.
Is it wasteful to heat the oven for only two cupcakes?
Not necessarily. Oven energy use depends mostly on how long the oven is on, so baking a small batch doesn’t dramatically change consumption compared with a larger batch if the oven is preheated for a similar amount of time. If you prefer, look for microwave mug cake recipes designed for single servings.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla, some people suggest maple syrup as a substitute. I haven’t tried it, but you could use the same amount as the vanilla extract listed below.
Get the recipe.
Use the How Sweet Eats Vanilla Cupcakes for Two for the cakes, and use the Buttercream Frosting for Two recipe below to finish them off.
📖 Recipe
Buttercream Frosting for Two Cupcakes
Video
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon milk
Instructions
-
Mix the softened butter in a small bowl with a fork until smooth.
-
Stir in the powdered sugar until the mixture comes together into a spreadable frosting.
-
Mix in the vanilla extract and milk, adding the milk sparingly until you reach the desired consistency.
-
Frost the cupcakes using the back of a spoon to spread the frosting evenly.
Notes
Nutrition
