The Best Vegan Frosting Recipes You Can Make
Picture this: you’re about to frost a cake, but your go-to buttercream is off-limits because you’re avoiding dairy. Now what? You don’t have to settle for bland or overly sweet alternatives. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just trying to cut out animal products, there’s a world of delicious, creamy, and fluffy vegan frostings out there—no compromise on taste or texture.
In this blog post, we’re diving deep into the best vegan frosting recipes you can make right in your kitchen. From classic vanilla to rich chocolate, coconut whipped cream to cashew-based frostings—you’ll find a flavor for every sweet tooth.
Why Choose Vegan Frosting?
Vegan frostings are not just for vegans. Here are a few reasons why more bakers are switching to dairy-free options:
- Health-conscious: Many vegan frostings use natural sweeteners and healthy fats like coconut cream or nut butters.
- Allergy-friendly: They’re often free of common allergens like dairy, eggs, and sometimes even soy and nuts.
- Sustainable: Plant-based ingredients generally have a lower environmental impact.
- Delicious: With the right recipe, you’ll never miss the butter.
1. Classic Vegan Vanilla Frosting
Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegan butter (softened)
- 2 ½ to 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp plant milk (almond, oat, or soy)
Instructions:
- Beat the vegan butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Add plant milk a little at a time to adjust consistency.
- Beat until light and fluffy.
Pro Tip: Use chilled mixing bowls to help achieve a fluffier consistency.
This is the go-to frosting for birthday cakes, sugar cookies, and cupcakes. It’s light, sweet, and customizable with natural coloring or flavoring (like lemon or almond extract).
2. Decadent Vegan Chocolate Frosting
Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegan butter
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 2 ½ to 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup plant milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Cream the butter and cocoa powder together.
- Add powdered sugar gradually with plant milk and vanilla.
- Beat until smooth and silky.
Use this frosting on: chocolate cupcakes, brownies, or even as a dip for strawberries. It’s so good you’ll want to eat it by the spoonful.
3. Coconut Whipped Cream Frosting
A lighter option with a subtle tropical flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight)
- 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Scoop the solid part of the chilled coconut milk into a bowl.
- Beat until it starts to peak.
- Add sweetener and vanilla and continue whipping.
Tips for Success:
- Only use full-fat coconut milk or cream.
- Chill both the can and mixing bowl for best results.
This frosting pairs perfectly with summer fruit cakes or lemon bars.
4. Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
The tangy counterpart to carrot cake and red velvet.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegan cream cheese
- ¼ cup vegan butter
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla gradually.
- Beat until thick and creamy.
Use this for:
Classic combos like red velvet cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, or even frosted banana bread.
5. Cashew-Based Vegan Frosting
For those who love a wholesome, nutty base.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup soaked cashews (overnight or 4 hours in hot water)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–4 tbsp non-dairy milk
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth.
- Add more milk to reach desired consistency.
This frosting is rich and dense, similar to a cheesecake filling. Perfect for raw desserts or as a filling for sandwich cookies.
6. Aquafaba Magic Frosting
Light as air and surprisingly stable.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup aquafaba (chickpea water)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp cream of tartar
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
- Whip aquafaba and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
- Slowly add sugar and vanilla while beating.
- Continue whipping for 8–10 minutes.
Use on: light sponge cakes, pavlovas, or as a meringue-style topping for pies.
7. Vegan Mocha Frosting
Coffee and chocolate lovers, unite.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegan butter
- 1 ½ tsp instant coffee dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
- Cream butter and coffee mixture.
- Add cocoa and powdered sugar.
- Beat until fluffy.
This bold frosting complements mocha cakes, espresso brownies, and chocolate croissants.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Frosting Every Time
✅ Room Temperature Matters
Always use room temperature vegan butter or cream cheese unless the recipe calls for chilling.
✅ Taste As You Go
Because vegan ingredients vary in flavor, especially butters and creams, tasting the frosting at each stage helps maintain balance.
✅ Don’t Skip Sifting
Sifting powdered sugar ensures your frosting doesn’t turn out lumpy.
✅ Add Flavors Naturally
Zest, extracts, or even fruit purees can be stirred in for a creative twist.
Bonus: How to Store Vegan Frosting
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days.
- Freeze: Vegan frosting can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and re-whip before using.
- Room Temperature: If using within 24 hours, room temp storage is fine (avoid direct heat).
Serving Ideas and Pairings
Vegan frosting isn’t just for cake. Here’s where you can let it shine:
| Dessert Type | Best Frosting Match |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Cake | Vegan Chocolate or Mocha Frosting |
| Carrot Cake | Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting |
| Vanilla Cupcakes | Classic Vegan Vanilla Frosting |
| Lemon Bars | Coconut Whipped Cream |
| Raw Brownies | Cashew Frosting |
| Cookies & Sandwiches | Cashew or Aquafaba Frosting |
Final Thoughts
With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up frosting that’s just as luxurious and satisfying as traditional ones—without the dairy, eggs, or guilt. From silky smooth chocolate to zesty vanilla bean, the best vegan frosting recipes you can make are only a few steps away.
Whether you’re topping off a cake, dressing up cookies, or eating it right from the bowl (we won’t judge!), these recipes will become go-to staples in your plant-based kitchen.