Basic Vanilla Buttercream (Recipe for Printing)

Perfect for spring gatherings, this smooth vanilla buttercream combines butter, vanilla extract, and confectioners' sugar for a luscious treat. Save & click.

# What You Need:

→ Buttercream Base

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
03 - 32 ounces confectioners' sugar, sifted
04 - 2 tablespoons whole milk, plus more as needed (up to 1/2 cup total)
05 - Pinch kosher salt

# How to Make It:

01 - In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the unsalted butter on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
02 - Add pure vanilla extract to the whipped butter and mix briefly to combine.
03 - With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the sifted confectioners' sugar, whole milk, and a pinch of kosher salt, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing.
04 - Increase mixer speed to medium-high and whisk until the frosting is light and aerated, at least 3 minutes and up to 7 minutes for optimal fluffiness.
05 - If the buttercream is too thick to spread, gradually beat in additional whole milk, one tablespoon at a time, to reach desired smoothness.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For a lighter texture, ensure butter is fully softened before beating. Sift confectioners' sugar to prevent lumps.