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Best Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting for Piping

Close-up of a tall, perfectly piped swirl of creamy white vanilla buttercream frosting on a small white plate.
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Make a simple, creamy, and fluffy American vanilla buttercream frosting that holds its shape perfectly for piping decorations on cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

  1. Beat the softened butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until it is light and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat again for 1 minute.
  5. If the frosting is too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired smooth and pipeable consistency.
  6. Beat on high speed for a final 2 minutes to incorporate air for maximum fluffiness.

Notes

  • For a stiffer frosting suitable for detailed piping, use less liquid or substitute milk with heavy cream.
  • If the butter is too warm, the frosting will be greasy; ensure the butter is just softened, not melted.
  • Sift your powdered sugar to prevent lumps in your finished frosting.
  • To make chocolate frosting, substitute 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted with the sugar.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe-easy/