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Mascarpone frosting in a bowl.
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The Best Mascarpone Frosting Recipe

This mascarpone frosting is thick, creamy, and perfect for spreading on cakes or cupcakes. A smooth, rich frosting made with cold mascarpone cheese and a touch of vanilla.
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 2300kcal
Author Tina Frank

Ingredients

  • (2) 8-ounce tubs mascarpone cheese cold
  • 3 tablespoons cold heavy cream plus more as needed to loosen
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 ½ cups powdered sugar

Instructions

  • Add (2) 8-ounce tubs of cold mascarpone, 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to a large mixing bowl and mix the ingredients together with a hand or stand mixer just until combined and smooth. Don’t overbeat the mascarpone mixture.
  • Gradually mix in 4 ½ cups of powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low. Once incorporated, beat on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy.
  • If the frosting is too thick, mix in heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until smooth and spreadable.

Notes

Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before spreading. Re-whip if needed.
Chill the frosting slightly before piping for a sturdy mascarpone frosting that holds its shape.
Keep the mascarpone cold to maintain a stable whipped cream texture.
Avoid overbeating to prevent a grainy texture.
Use a large bowl so you have plenty of space to mix without powdered sugar spilling.
For the best results, use fresh, high-quality mascarpone.

Nutrition

Calories: 2300kcal | Carbohydrates: 542g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 607mg | Potassium: 73mg | Sugar: 531g | Vitamin A: 690IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 0.4mg