Cream cheese frosting substitutes
Cream cheese frosting substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Buttercream frosting
Same amount as the cream cheese frosting
Similar frosting with different base.
The best substitutes for cream cheese frosting are buttercream frosting, whipped cream, or mascarpone frosting, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of cream cheese frosting | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buttercream frostingbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Whipped creambaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 3 | Mascarpone frostingbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Buttercream frosting
different taste, similar texture
Similar frosting with different base.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cakes, cupcakes
Different base, similar texture - more buttery.
Whipped cream
different taste and texture
Similar frosting with different base.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cakes, cupcakes
Different base, similar texture - lighter.
Mascarpone frosting
different taste, similar texture
Similar frosting with different base.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cakes, cupcakes
Different base, similar texture - richer.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use buttercream frosting instead of cream cheese frosting?
Yes, buttercream frosting is a good substitute for cream cheese frosting, but it has a different flavor and is more buttery.
What's the difference between cream cheese frosting and buttercream frosting?
Cream cheese frosting is made with cream cheese and has a tangy flavor, while buttercream frosting is made with butter and has a sweeter flavor.
Can I use cream cheese frosting on any cake?
Yes, cream cheese frosting can be used on any cake, but it's most commonly used on carrot cake and red velvet cake.
Tips for substituting cream cheese frosting
4 tips- Cream cheese frosting is tangy and sweet, good for carrot cake and red velvet cake
- It's commonly used in baking and dessert decoration
- Cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated and used within a few days
- It pairs well with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg