Description
This Buttercream Icing recipe is delightfully fluffy and easy to make, perfect for cupcakes, cakes, or sugar cookies. Customize it for vanilla, chocolate, or colored frosting to suit any occasion!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Base Recipe:
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 4 cups confectioners (powdered) sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (use clear vanilla for white icing)
- 2 tbsp milk
- Chocolate Frosting Variation:
- Add 1 1/4 cups cocoa powder
- Colored Frosting Variation:
- Add 3-6 drops of food coloring (adjust for desired vibrancy)
Instructions
Cream the Butter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric hand mixer for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Add Flavor and Milk:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and milk. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and light.
4. Customize (Optional):
- For chocolate frosting, sift in cocoa powder with the powdered sugar.
- For colored frosting, add food coloring with the milk and mix until the color is even.
5. Frost and Enjoy:
- Spread or pipe the buttercream onto cupcakes, cakes, or cookies. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
- For piping, ensure the frosting is slightly chilled for better consistency.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Bring refrigerated frosting to room temperature and re-whip before using.