American Buttercream Frosting (Magnolia Bakery Buttercream)
Fluffy, sweet American Buttercream Frosting is the easy icing you need for all your cake and cupcake recipes. Simple to make with just a few ingredients.
Place the butter in a large mixing bowl. Add 4 cups of sugar, the milk and vanilla. On medium speed of an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes.
Gradually add the remaining sugar beating well after each addition (about 2 minutes) until the icing is thick enough to be of good spreading consistency. You may not need all the sugar.
If desired, add a few drops of food coloring or coloring paste and mix thoroughly.
Allow the frosting to sit at room temperature for an hour before using so it can firm up a bit.
Use and store the icing at room temperature because the icing will set if chilled. Icing can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
Makes enough for one 2-layer 9 inch cake or 2 dozen cupcakes.This is for a Vanilla Buttercream Frosting, if you want to make Chocolate Buttercream, add 2-3 tablespoons cocoa powder until the desired flavor is achieved.