Go Back
+ servings
a devil's food cake frosted with swiss meringue buttercream and topped with fresh berries
Print Recipe
4.61 from 23 votes

Swiss Meringue Buttercream

Made with five simple ingredients, this silky, smooth, light, buttery and not too sweet Homemade Swiss Meringue Buttercream is the perfect topping for any dessert!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 cups
Calories: 1130kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 large egg whites
  • 2 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 lb unsalted butter 6 sticks, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract or another flavor of your choice

Instructions

  • Put an inch of water in a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. In the bowl of your stand mixer, stir egg whites, sugar and salt until combined.
  • Place mixing bowl over saucepan but be careful not to let the water touch the bottom of the mixing bowl. Stir with a spatula until the sugar dissolves and reaches a temp of 160 F, about 5 minutes. While you stir, scrap the sides of the bowl to ensure no sugar grains are lurking on the sides.
  • Remove mixing bowl from heat and add to stand mixer with whisk attachment. Whisk on medium high speed until stiff peaks form. They will be glossy. This can take up to 10 minutes. The bowl will continue to cool down in the process as well.
  • Reduce the speed to low and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter at a time making sure to mix in thoroughly after each addition. When butter is incorporated, add vanilla extract and beat on low until incorporated then frost or refrigerate until ready to frost.

Notes

During the double-boiling process, it's crucial that the sugar completely melts and combines with the egg whites. 
To test, dip a finger into the mixture and rub it together with your thumb. If you feel any grit, keep cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 1130kcal | Carbohydrates: 76g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 92g | Saturated Fat: 58g | Cholesterol: 244mg | Sodium: 177mg | Potassium: 92mg | Sugar: 75g | Vitamin A: 2834IU | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg