Frosting doesn’t always have to be a sugar bomb or overly complicated. That’s the charm of this greek yogurt cream cheese frosting—it manages to feel indulgent without going completely overboard.
For those searching for a healthier spin on traditional frosting recipes, this one hits a sweet spot that still feels rich and satisfying. It’s got all the smooth texture and classic tang of a bakery-style finish but with a subtle twist that makes it different in a good way.
A Smooth, Lighter Finish That Still Feels Classic
There’s a reason people keep turning to frosting recipes that use cream cheese. It adds body, tang, and a creamy consistency that just can’t be matched by butter alone.
In this recipe, though, a bit of greek yogurt sneaks in to change the game just slightly. It cuts some of the butter and gives the frosting a little bit of lift—like it’s fluffier, lighter, but not in a way that makes it feel like diet food.
Layer cake fans and cupcake lovers alike get something special here. It’s a frosting that works just as well piped in thick swirls on a cupcake as it does smoothed into dreamy layers between cake rounds.
And for anyone doing more meal prep baking or planning ahead for events, it holds up surprisingly well. It can be made a day ahead, stashed in the fridge, then softened slightly when it’s go-time.
Flavor That’s Familiar But Not Basic
What makes this stand out is how it tweaks familiar flavors. The vanilla is there, like in most cream cheese frostings, but there’s also a touch of almond extract—just enough to make people pause and ask, “Wait, what is that?” It adds depth.
A warm backnote that makes the frosting feel like it took more effort than it actually did.
And because this recipe is flexible with the powdered sugar, the sweetness can be dialed up or down. Want it more stiff and sugary for a clean piped look? Go up to 4 cups.
Want something a little softer and less sweet for spreading across a snacking cake? Stick to 3 cups. That adaptability is what makes it a strong go-to for everyday bakers and anyone trying out new healthy dessert recipes that still deliver.
Customizing for Different Cakes & Occasions
This isn’t one of those recipes that only works for one type of dessert. It’s just as perfect spread on a banana snack cake as it is on a rich chocolate layer cake.
And since the flavor leans lightly tangy, it balances out overly sweet cakes beautifully.
Want to go dairy-free? Sub in a plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free yogurt—just make sure it’s thick, or the frosting may be too loose. Need it gluten-free? That’s already covered, as long as all the ingredients used are certified GF.
For spring gatherings, a whipped version with a little extra yogurt might feel more seasonal and light. For fall or winter events, keeping it on the denser, sweeter side works better with spiced or nutty cakes.
There’s a lot of room to adjust, which is what makes it a standout among other cream cheese frosting recipes.
Great for Batch Baking & Entertaining
Anyone who bakes for parties, school functions, or birthdays knows the value of a reliable, versatile frosting. This one makes enough to generously frost 18 cupcakes or a 9×13-inch sheet cake.
Making a double batch? It scales easily, and because it firms up when chilled, it’s easy to make ahead without sacrificing that smooth finish.
It’s also a solid option for bakers trying to lean into more health-conscious baking without sacrificing the feel of a classic dessert. It fits into that category of better-for-you recipes, while still being frosting—decadent, sweet, and totally welcome at any celebration.
Sweet Simplicity, Elevated
Sometimes it’s the simplest recipe that ends up becoming a favorite. Greek yogurt cream cheese frosting checks all the right boxes. Easy to make, easy to tweak, and impossible to mess up.
For bakers looking to experiment a little with ingredients or those trying to add more balance into their dessert rotation, this frosting deserves a spot in the regular recipe lineup.
Healthy Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Equipment
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment or large mixing bowl and hand mixer
Ingredients
- 8 ounces reduced fat cream cheese at room temperature
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons nonfat plain Greek yogurt at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon pure almond extract
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar sifted if lumpy
Instructions
- Add cream cheese and butter to a stand mixer bowl (or a large bowl if using a hand mixer). Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until completely smooth.
- Add Greek yogurt, vanilla, almond extract, and salt. Mix until everything is fully blended and even in texture.
- Reduce the speed to low and start adding 3 cups of powdered sugar gradually. As the sugar incorporates, slowly increase to medium speed. Continue mixing for 1 to 2 minutes until you get a silky, cohesive frosting.
- For thicker frosting—ideal for layer cakes or a firmer consistency—gradually add the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar and blend until your desired texture is reached.
Notes
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.