Soften your dairy: Set cream cheese and butter out until they’re fully soft to the touch.
This ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting.
Cream the base: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape the bowl well.
Add vanilla and salt: Mix in vanilla extract and salt until evenly combined.
Incorporate powdered sugar: Add powdered sugar in 1/2-cup increments, beating on low at first to avoid a sugar cloud, then on medium until silky. Start with 2 1/2 cups.
Adjust consistency: Add 1–3 tablespoons milk or cream, a little at a time, until the frosting is creamy, glossy, and spreadable.
If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
Whip for fluff: Beat for an extra 30–60 seconds to aerate. You want a smooth, fluffy finish without overwhipping.
Use it right: Spread generously over warm cinnamon rolls so it melts slightly into the crevices. For cooled bakes, let the frosting sit at room temp 10 minutes to soften, then spread.