Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberries
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
• 4 ounces block-style cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, measured then sifted
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. 

   1

   Prepare the strawberries – Crush the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. Finely chop the fresh strawberries, then blend until smooth to create a purée.

2. 

   2

   Whip the butter and cream cheese – In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.

3. 

   3

   Add the strawberries and powdered sugar – Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, then mix in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and fresh strawberry purée until well combined.

4. 

   4

   Adjust the consistency – Taste the frosting and add a pinch of salt if desired. For a thicker frosting, mix in additional powdered sugar or a little more crushed freeze-dried strawberries. For a thinner frosting, add a teaspoon of heavy cream or vanilla extract if desired.

5. 

   5

   Finish the frosting – Beat for another 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy. Spread or pipe onto cakes, cupcakes, cookies, bars, or other completely cooled desserts.