Oh, frosting! Is there anything better than a big swirl of perfectly sweet frosting on a cupcake? I honestly don’t think so! And let me tell you, once you’ve had homemade frosting, you’ll never go back to that stuff in a can. Seriously. I remember this one time, I made these amazing chocolate cupcakes for a bake sale, but I almost ruined them with store-bought frosting. Ugh, it was way too sweet and kinda… artificial tasting? Never again!
That’s why I’m so excited to share my Marshmallow Frosting recipe with you! It’s super easy to whip up, and it’s seriously the fluffiest, most delicious frosting you’ll ever taste. The secret? Real marshmallow creme! Trust me, this Marshmallow Frosting will take your cakes and cupcakes to the next level!

Why You’ll Love This Marshmallow Frosting
Okay, so why is this Marshmallow Frosting about to become your new go-to? Let me tell you, it’s not just the taste (though, that’s a BIG part of it!). It’s the whole package. I mean, who doesn’t love a frosting that’s as easy as it is yummy? Here’s the lowdown:
Simple and Quick
Seriously, you can whip this up in like, five minutes! From start to finish! Five minutes! That’s faster than ordering takeout. And way more satisfying, trust me.
Perfectly Sweet and Fluffy
This isn’t some overly sweet, gritty frosting. Nope. It’s perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness and a cloud-like, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. My favorite part is when it just sits on your tongue!
Versatile Dessert Topping
Cake? Cupcakes? Brownies? Cookies? This Marshmallow Frosting is your new best friend. It’s not just for the usual suspects; get creative! I even put it on graham crackers once when I was feeling extra snacky. Don’t judge!
Ingredients for Marshmallow Frosting
Alright, let’s talk ingredients! This Marshmallow Frosting is so simple, you probably have most of this stuff in your pantry already. But listen up, because a few details make all the difference! Grandma always said the ingredients are the key!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: This is super important! Make sure your butter is nice and soft, but not melted. I usually leave mine out on the counter for about an hour before I start. If you’re dairy-free, you can try a dairy-free butter substitute, but honestly, I haven’t tested it myself, so let me know how it goes!
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted: Sift that sugar, people! Trust me on this one. Sifting gets rid of any lumps and makes your frosting super smooth. Nobody wants lumpy frosting!
- 1/2 cup marshmallow creme, from a jar: Yep, the stuff in the jar! Don’t try to get fancy here. Just grab a jar of your favorite marshmallow creme.
- 2 tablespoons milk, whole milk: I usually use whole milk because it makes the frosting extra creamy, but you can use whatever milk you have on hand. Just start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you need it.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure: Real vanilla extract is the way to go! It adds so much flavor. Don’t use the imitation stuff, okay?
- Pinch of salt, kosher salt: Just a pinch! Salt balances out the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop. I like using kosher salt, but any salt will do in a pinch (see what I did there?).

How to Make Marshmallow Frosting: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, here’s where the magic happens! Don’t worry, it’s not complicated at all. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have the most amazing Marshmallow Frosting in no time!
Cream the Butter
This is the most important step, so pay attention! You absolutely NEED to start with softened butter. Like, really soft. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly, and your frosting will be lumpy. Nobody wants that! Pop your softened butter into a large bowl (I use my stand mixer, but a hand mixer works just fine!) and beat it on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It should look almost whipped, and that’s when you know it’s ready!
Gradually Add Powdered Sugar
Okay, this is where things can get a little messy, so be prepared! Turn your mixer to low speed (trust me on this!), and gradually add the powdered sugar, about a cup at a time. Make sure each cup is fully incorporated before adding the next. If you dump it all in at once, you’ll end up with a powdered sugar cloud in your kitchen! And nobody wants that! Plus, adding it gradually helps keep the frosting smooth and lump-free.
Incorporate Marshmallow Creme and Other Wet Ingredients
Now for the good stuff! Add the marshmallow creme, milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix at this point! We just want everything to come together. It might look a little… questionable at first, but trust the process!
Beat Until Fluffy
Alright, now it’s time to whip this Marshmallow Frosting into shape! Turn your mixer up to medium-high speed and beat for another 2-3 minutes, or until the frosting is light, airy, and super fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks like a cloud of marshmallow goodness! And that’s it! Seriously, that’s all there is to it! Now go frost something amazing!
Tips for the Best Marshmallow Frosting
Okay, so you’ve got the basics down, but let’s talk about turning your Marshmallow Frosting from good to AMAZING! I’ve learned a few tricks over the years (and a few frosting fails, oops!) that I’m happy to share. Trust me, these little things make a HUGE difference!
First, room temperature ingredients are key! Seriously, it’s not just the butter. The marshmallow creme mixes much easier if it’s not straight outta the fridge. And like I said before, sifting that powdered sugar is a MUST! No one wants lumpy frosting. If your frosting is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. If it’s too sweet (though, is there such a thing?), add a tiny pinch more salt. And finally, don’t be afraid to taste! Frosting is supposed to be fun, so adjust it until it’s perfect for YOU!
Marshmallow Frosting Variations
Okay, so you’ve mastered the basic Marshmallow Frosting (yay!), but why stop there? Let’s get a little crazy and add some flavor! I love experimenting with different variations. It’s like giving your taste buds a party! Here are a few of my faves to get you started. But hey, don’t be afraid to get creative and come up with your own!
Chocolate Marshmallow Frosting
Chocolate and marshmallow? Yes, please! For a rich, decadent twist, melt about 2 ounces of your favorite chocolate (I like dark chocolate, but milk chocolate works too!) and let it cool slightly before adding it to the frosting. Or, for a simpler option, whisk in 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Mmm, so good! I’m drooling just thinking about it!
Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting
This one’s perfect for spring! Add about 2-3 tablespoons of strawberry puree (just blend some fresh or frozen strawberries!) or a teaspoon of strawberry extract to the frosting. It’ll turn a beautiful pink color and taste like a strawberry dream! Make sure you strain the puree first so you don’t get seeds!
Peanut Butter Marshmallow Frosting
Calling all peanut butter lovers! This one’s for you! Simply add about 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter to the frosting and mix until smooth. Trust me, this is seriously addictive. Careful, you might just eat it straight from the bowl! Not that I’ve ever done that… okay, maybe once or twice!
Storage and Reheating Instructions for Your Marshmallow Frosting
Alright, so you made a big batch of Marshmallow Frosting (good for you!) and you’ve got some leftover. No problem! This stuff keeps pretty well, but you gotta know how to store it properly. Here’s the deal:
Pop that leftover frosting into an airtight container (I like to use a good ol’ Tupperware) and stick it in the fridge. It’ll keep for about 3-4 days. But here’s the thing: it’s gonna get pretty firm in the fridge. So, when you’re ready to use it again, you’ll need to bring it back to a spreadable consistency. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then give it a good whip with your mixer. If it’s still too firm, add a tiny splash of milk (like, a teaspoon at a time) until it’s nice and smooth again. Easy peasy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Marshmallow Frosting
Got questions about my Marshmallow Frosting? I got answers! Here are a few of the most common things people ask me. Don’t be shy, if you’ve got more, just ask in the comments!
Can I make Marshmallow Frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Marshmallow Frosting is great for making ahead. Just whip it up, pop it in an airtight container, and stash it in the fridge. It’ll keep for a few days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature and give it a good beating before you use it. It might need a tiny splash of milk to get it back to that perfect, fluffy consistency. Easy peasy!
How do I fix Marshmallow Frosting that is too thick?
Oops, did your Marshmallow Frosting get a little too stiff? No worries, it happens! Just add a tiny bit of milk, one tablespoon at a time, and beat it until it’s smooth and creamy again. Be careful not to add too much, or it’ll get too thin! Just keep adding milk a tiny bit at a time until you reach the perfect consistency. You got this!
Can I use different extracts in my Marshmallow Frosting?
Oh, for sure! Vanilla extract is classic, but feel free to get creative! Almond extract would be delicious, or even a little bit of lemon extract for a bright, tangy flavor. Just remember, extracts are potent, so start with a small amount (like 1/2 teaspoon) and add more to taste. Have fun experimenting!
Nutritional Information for Marshmallow Frosting
Okay, let’s talk numbers! I know, I know, it’s frosting, so we’re not exactly talking health food here. But hey, it’s good to know what you’re getting into, right? So, here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional info for my Marshmallow Frosting. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and it can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use and how big your servings are!
Per serving (about 1/12 of the recipe):
- Calories: Around 250 (yikes!)
- Fat: About 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: Around 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 35 grams
- Sugar: A whopping 30 grams (told ya!)
- Protein: Just about 1 gram
- Sodium: Around 50 milligrams
So yeah, it’s definitely a treat! But hey, everything in moderation, right? And besides, it’s so darn delicious, it’s worth it! Just maybe don’t eat the whole bowl in one sitting… or do, I’m not judging!

Rate This Marshmallow Frosting Recipe
Okay, my friend, you’ve made it all the way to the end! Now comes the fun part. I really, really wanna know what you think of this Marshmallow Frosting recipe! Did it blow your mind? Did it make your cupcakes sing? Did you sneak a spoonful straight from the bowl (no shame if you did!)?
Seriously, leave me a rating and a comment below! It helps other bakers find this recipe, and it helps me make it even better! Plus, I just love hearing from you guys! So, go ahead, tell me everything! What did you frost? What did you think? What would you change? I’m all ears (or eyes, I guess, since I’m reading!). Happy frosting!
Print
Irresistible Marshmallow Frosting in Just 5 Minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost a 9x13 inch cake or 24 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe provides instructions for making a sweet and fluffy marshmallow frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup marshmallow creme
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the marshmallow creme, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Beat on medium speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Use immediately to frost your favorite cake or cupcakes.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, add a tablespoon of cream cheese.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk.
- If the frosting is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of frosting recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg