Nutella Frosting is an easy, decadent topping that elevates cupcakes, cakes, and more.
Nutella sparks strong opinions: you either adore it or you don’t. I find it best used as a flavor enhancer rather than eaten straight from the jar, and its rich, hazelnut-chocolate profile shines when incorporated into frostings and fillings. This Nutella Frosting delivers that familiar creamy flavor in a pipeable, stable frosting that’s perfect for cupcakes, layer cakes, brownies, and even as a dip for fruit.
The recipe is simple and quick — you can make a batch in about five minutes. It pairs especially well with vanilla or funfetti cakes, but it’s rich enough to complement chocolate, coffee, or nut-flavored desserts. It also works wonderfully as a filling for sandwich cookies or graham cracker treats.
Why you’ll love this Nutella Frosting
- Quick to prepare — ready in under 10 minutes.
- Creamy, pipeable texture that holds shape on cupcakes.
- Versatile — use it to frost, fill, dip, or spread.
- Uses just a few pantry ingredients: butter, Nutella, powdered sugar, and milk.
Nutella Frosting Recipe
Nutella Frosting
Author: Celeste Noland | Life After Wheat
Summary: A quick, creamy Nutella frosting that transforms simple cupcakes, cakes, or treats into something special.
Prep: 5 mins | Total: 5 mins | Yield: 1 cup frosting
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) salted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup Nutella hazelnut spread
- 2 cups powdered (confectioners’) sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy), divided
Equipment
- Stand mixer with whisk or paddle attachment, or a hand mixer and bowl
- Piping bag and tip (optional) or an offset spatula for spreading
Method
- Beat the softened butter in a mixer on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until smooth and slightly airy.
- Add the Nutella and continue beating for another minute until fully combined and creamy.
- With the mixer on low, add the powdered sugar and mix until incorporated. The mixture will appear very powdery at first.
- While the mixer is running, add milk a little at a time — start with 1 tablespoon, then add 1/2 tablespoon increments — until the frosting reaches the desired pipeable consistency. You may need 2–3 tablespoons total depending on humidity and how soft your Nutella and butter are.
- Stop the mixer and scrape down the bowl, then beat briefly once more to ensure smoothness.
- Use immediately to frost cupcakes, layer cakes, or as a filling for cookies. For piping, transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with your preferred tip. For spreading, use an offset spatula.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- For a lighter frosting, try replacing one tablespoon of butter with one tablespoon of mascarpone or cream cheese; this will add tang and lighten the texture.
- If the frosting is too soft, chill it briefly (10–15 minutes) to firm up before piping. If it’s too stiff, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it loosens.
- For extra hazelnut flavor, fold in a tablespoon of finely chopped toasted hazelnuts just before using.
- To make a boozy version, add 1 teaspoon of hazelnut liqueur or a small splash of coffee liqueur for adults-only desserts.
- Use gluten-free cake mixes or gluten-free cookies when making sandwiches or cupcakes to keep the whole treat gluten-free if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This frosting pairs beautifully with vanilla, funfetti, and chocolate cakes. It’s also excellent as a dip for strawberries, for filling sandwich cookies or graham cracker sandwiches, or spread between two thin brownies for a nutella-stuffed treat.
Storage
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip briefly before using to restore a smooth, spreadable texture. You can also freeze the frosting for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and re-whip before serving.
Nutrition (approx. per serving)
Serving size: about 1 tablespoon. Approximate values: Calories 260 kcal; Carbohydrates 37 g; Protein 2 g; Fat 12 g; Saturated Fat 8 g; Sugar 35 g; Sodium 55 mg.
If you try this recipe, tag your creation on social media or leave a note in the comments — I love seeing how you use this Nutella Frosting!
