2-Ingredients Vanilla Buttercream

With only 2 ingredients you need to buy, this buttercream uses butter, powdered sugar, and water. It is smooth, easy to make, and tastes amazing!

2 ingredient frosting with powdered sugar

Published: March 18, 2025 by Pamela

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I almost didn’t add this recipe to the blog because some people didn’t like that I called it a 2-ingredient buttercream when it actually has 3 or 4. But seriously, you only need to buy butter and powdered sugar, water is always available, and the extract is optional.

That aside, this is one of my favorite buttercreams. It’s super simple, has just a few ingredients, and the texture is really smooth. It’s similar to Swiss meringue, not too sweet, holds up well, and doesn’t crust. So, if you’re looking for a swiss meringue buttercream without eggs, you’re going to love this one!

piping buttecream frosting made with powdered sugar and butter

Ingredients to make the easiest buttercream frosting:

Unsalted Butter
Powdered Sugar
Hot Water
Extract of your choice (Optional)

Measurements are posted in the recipe card below the instructions.

Instructions to make this 2-ingredients buttercream:

Mix the hot water with powdered sugar until completely dissolved and smooth. If using an extract, stir it in. Cover the glaze so it doesn’t dry out and let it cool at room temperature.

first step in making buttercream using 2 main ingredients including preparing the glaze

In a bowl, beat room-temperature butter with a mixer. Start on low, then increase to high speed. Keep mixing until the butter becomes pale, fluffy, and almost doubles in size.

beating room temperature butter to become smooth and lighter

With the mixer on low to medium speed, slowly pour the cooled glaze into the butter. Mix until smooth and creamy. Scrape the bowl if needed to make sure everything is well combined.

final steps are making the easiest buttercream frosting using 2 ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use granulated sugar? Unfortunately, you can’t. The glaze is a key part of this recipe, and you can’t make a proper glaze with granulated sugar. Powdered sugar is crucial for the right consistency. However, you can make your own powdered sugar from granulated sugar at home.
Does it crust? No, this buttercream doesn’t crust. Unlike American buttercream, which forms a thin crust as it sits, this one stays smooth and creamy. It has a consistency similar to Swiss meringue buttercream: light, silky, and stable.
Does it hold well to heat? Yes, better than most buttercreams! While no buttercream can withstand extreme heat, this one is more stable than traditional recipes. If you’re dealing with really high temperatures, chocolate ganache would be a better option.
What extract can I use? Add any extract that you want, vanilla, almond, mint, whatever you like. This buttercream is super customizable, so feel free to experiment with flavors!
Can I add cocoa powder? Yes, you can! Make sure to add it with the powdered sugar, and be ready to adjust the liquid to keep the glaze consistency just right. If you’re looking for an easy chocolate version, I have a 2-ingredient chocolate buttercream!

If you tried this recipe, be sure to leave a rating and share your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear your feedback!