1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, room temperature 6-8 cups of powdered sugar 1/2 cup of milk 1.5 tsp vanilla extract
1. In an electric mixing bowl fitted with the paddle attachment or if you don't have an electric mixing bowl use a large bowl and an electric mixer, mix the butter until smooth and creamy (a few minutes). 2. Add 4 cups of the sugar, the milk and vanilla and on low speed mix until combined. 3.Add two more cups of sugar and on low speed mix until light and fluffy. If you need to, add the remaining two cups of powdered sugar.
Tips: When mixing together the buttercream frosting ingredients, be aware that powdered sugar is very light and will get into the air. You will know this is happening because when you breathe in you will feel and taste a sweetness in your breath. To avoid this, place a clean dish towel over the mixing bowl.
1 ½ cups powdered sugar 3 to 4 tbsp. milk, water, or lemon juice
Sift powdered sugar into a bowl. Whisk in liquid 1 tbsp. at a time, until smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If too thin, whisk in more sugar; if too thick, add more liquid.
