Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

by Jessica Selensky on February 10, 2026 0 comments

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect addition to a brownie, cupcake or cookies. By using raspberry jam, it creates the ideal raspberry flavor, sweet with just the right amount of tartness. The texture of the frosting is smooth, creamy and luscious!

A fudge brownie topped with a swirl of raspberry cream cheese frosting.

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect addition to pretty much any dessert. Especially if it has chocolate. It isn’t too heavy and has a creamy texture.

Each bite will be paired with the perfect combination of tartness and sweetness!

Ingredient Notes

Scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients and their measurements.

Salted Butter – However, you can also use Unsalted Butter and add a pinch when mixing the frosting together. Use a fine sea salt or finely ground kosher salt.
Plain Cream Cheese – Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. If it is too cold, it won’t blend well with the butter.
Vanilla Extract – You can also use a vanilla bean paste in this recipe.
Powdered Sugar
Raspberry Fruit Spread¹ (I used this one and strained it) or use this Seedless Raspberry Jam

Ingredients measured out in bowls to make raspberry frosting.

What is the difference between buttercream and cream cheese frosting?

Buttercream is sweeter, firmer, and ideal for intricate piping, while cream cheese frosting is tangier, softer, and best for pairing with moist cakes like carrot or red velvet.

Also, cream cheese frosting requires constant refrigeration, whereas buttercream is more stable at room temperature.

Ways to Use This Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting

There are so many ways to enjoy this frosting. I share a few options and specific recipes below, however, I have been found guilty of eating it with just a spoon too.

On top of Brownies – When I first made this frosting, I added them on top of brownies and it was perfection. This recipe for Fudgy Espresso Brownies never fails!
Cake and Cupcakes – Gluten Free Chocolate Cupcakes that are extra moist being made with sweet potato or try this Moist Chocolate Cake that is made in a 9×9 square pan.
Cookies – Frosted Chocolate Cookies, Funfetti Birthday Cake Cookies or this Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake would be the perfect base for this raspberry frosting.

Step by Step Process Making this Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The full-detailed instructions are written out in the recipe card below. Use these images to help guide you as needed when following the directions.

Add the butter and cream cheese to a large mixing bowl

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use jam or jelly for this recipe?

You could use either! However, I suggest using seedless (or straining the seeds) as well as one without chunks for a smoother and more pleasant frosting texture.

Can this frosting be made in advance?

Yes! You can make the frosting in advance and store it in the fridge. Remove from the fridge 30-45 minutes prior to using to soften for piping.

How can I thicken the frosting?

The powdered sugar thickens a frosting. You can add more a little at a time to thicken to your desired texture. Also, prior to making the frosting, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature and not melted.

Can I add fresh or frozen raspberries into the frosting?

I would not add fresh or frozen raspberries to the frosting as that will add more moisture and affect the consistency/thickness of the frosting. However, you could add crushed freeze-dried raspberries without it affecting the frosting texture. I prefer to add fresh raspberries on top as decoration.

How do I store leftovers of this Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for ultimate freshness.