overhead view of a dollop of funfetti frosting next to a piping bag on a small white plate

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. I will never recommend a product I don't use or trust.

Why I love this dairy free frosting

Let's talk about frosting for a minute. I know it seems like it should be full of dairy products, and it can be, but this one thing that's super easy to make dairy free.

In fact, most store bought frostings are already dairy free because they rely on vegetable or palm shortening for their fats.

But, I wanted to give you a full run down on how to make frosting without butter in case you need it.

close up of a funfetti cupcake next to a piping bag

Here's what you'll need to make it

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Piping bag and tips, optional
close up of spatula full of dairy free funfetti frosting

Ingredients

When it comes to frosting, you basically need 3 things. Sugar, fat and liquid. Of course, we often add things like vanilla extract or cocoa powder to flavor the frosting, but basically that's all it is – and that's why it tastes so good.

  • Sugar – Sugar is definitely dairy free – although it might not be vegan – so we just need to replace the fats here. Thankfully it's super easy.
  • Fat – I usually opt for vegetable shortening, but occasionally, I'll use dairy free butter. You can also substitute coconut oil, but it will never be my first choice because it's so temperature sensitive.
  • Liquid – Typically you will want to use your favorite dairy free milk, but you can also use coconut cream, vegan sour cream, or vegan yogurt. You can even use water.

How to make vegan frosting

Beat the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, beat the shortening, liquid of choice, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

Add the dry ingredients. Add a pinch of salt and the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, and mix until each addition has been full incorporated.

close up of dairy free vanilla frosting with sprinkles in a mixing whisk

Dairy free frosting variations

To make funfetti frosting (like the one pictured here), gently mix in some rainbow sprinkles at the end.

To make chocolate frosting, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder with the wet ingredients and decrease the powdered sugar amount by the same amount.

To make strawberry frosting, substitute 1/4 cup strawberry puree or strawberry jam for the liquid.

close up of dairy free frosting with sprinkles in a bowl

FAQS and tips for making dairy free frosting

What is vegan icing made of?

Vegan icing is typically made from vegetable shortening or vegan butter, mixed with powdered organic sugar and flavorings, like vanilla extract or cocoa powder.

How do you make homemade frosting thicker?

If your frosting is too thin, you can mix in extra powdered sugar until you reach the consistency you are after. Another option is to chill the frosting until it the fats solidify, but this will only be a temporary fix.

Is frosting dairy free?

Not necessarily. While many store bought frosting is dairy free (always check your labels), homemade frostings tend to be made with butter or cream cheese, so they won't be dairy free.

macro close up of funfetti frosting on a cupcake

This recipe would be great with:

  • 1234 Cake
  • Birthday cupcakes
  • Dairy free cupcakes
  • Anise cookies
  • Basic yellow cake

More recipes with frosting you'll love:

  • Mexican chocolate cupcakes
  • Coffee cupcakes
  • Apple cupcakes
  • Raspberry cupcakes

Print

Dairy Free Frosting

This creamy, dairy free frosting is perfect for your next batch of cupcakes or cake. It's easy to make and delicious – you'll want to eat it off the spoon! Don't forget to add some sprinkles for extra fun.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 5 – 6 cups 1x
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan
  • 1 cup vegetable shortening, or vegan butter
  • 2 – 4 tablespoons liquid of choice*
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 4 – 5 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 – 4 tablespoons rainbow, optional

  1. In a large bowl, beat the shortening, sour cream or yogurt and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

  2. Add salt and powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, and mix until each addition has been fully incorporated.

Notes

*Use your favorite dairy free milk, sour cream or yogurt as liquid (amount will vary based on choice and desired frosting consistency).

Keywords: dairy free, vegan, gluten free, egg free, easy, frosting, dessert

Last Updated on November 12, 2021 by Melissa Belanger