Notes

• This is my go-to vanilla buttercream recipe. It's the perfect amount of vanilla flavor without overpowering your cake, with an easy-to-pipe consistency that holds its shape. 

FAVORITE VANILLA BUTTERCREAM

INGREDIENTS

• 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cups powdered (confectioners') sugar, sifted
• 4 tablespoons milk (plus more, if needed after mixing)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Gel food coloring (optional)

DIRECTIONS

• In the bowl of a standing mixer, combine all ingredients and beat at low until combined (2 on most KitchenAid mixers) until combined (about one minute).
• Increase speed to medium (speed 6) and beat until light and airy -- approximately 3 minutes.
• If frosting is still dry, gradually add more milk until it's creamy, but still holds peaks. 
• Tint with gel food coloring as desired. 
• Scoop the frosting into a large piping bag fitted with a large tip and frost, then decorate with fondant, flags, sprinkles, etc.