In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth.
Add in the vanilla extract, vinegar, and salt; mix on low speed until well combined.
Continuing on low speed, add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until creamy and completely smooth.
Notes
The vinegar gives the cream cheese frosting a noticeable tangy flavor and balances the sweetness of the sugar.
To make lemon frosting, substitute 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice for the vinegar.
Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese, not low-fat cream cheese or cream cheese spreads. Full-fat cream cheese (usually sold in a “block) is best for a thick, fluffy frosting.
The icing can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The nutrition facts are estimates only, and reflect the approximate nutrition information for 1 cup (16 servings) of frosting.