Notes:

• This recipe is for medium consistency buttercream, which is excellent for piping decorations like flowers. However, it will need to be thinned for frosting cakes and borders.
• Vegan buttery spread may be substituted for 1/2 cup of shortening. Note that different brands may yield a softer frosting, so only add liquid as needed when using vegan butter substitutes.
• Keep bowl covered with plastic wrap until ready to use.
• If using a hand mixer, beat shortening, vegan butter (if used), and liquids first, then add sugar, as above. Make one batch at a time to prevent the hand mixer from burning out.
• Depending on the humidity and climate, it may be necessary to adjust the liquid and the sugar in your frosting. If the frosting looks dry, add small amounts of liquid (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon at a time). If frosting is too wet, add 1 tablespoon of sugar at a time. Adding small amounts of liquid until you achieve the right consistency is key.
• If you find that this recipe is too sweet, consider using a pinch of salt, which will help cut the sweetness. Let the pinch of salt dissolve in your liquid to avoid granules of salt in the buttercream.

Adding Flavor: Wilton’s Buttercream Frosting recipe is a great base for your favorite flavorings and extracts. Add flavoring to taste, but be mindful not to add so much liquid that it affects the consistency of your frosting. If you like using a lot of flavor, try substituting some of your liquid with flavoring.

• Clear extracts are also a great option for adding flavor to buttercream without adding color. These flavors are essential for making pure white frosting and maintaining vibrant colors for decorating.

Storing Buttercream: Leftover buttercream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Buttercream can also be frozen for up to six months. Bring buttercream back to room temperature and re-whip using a paddle attachment before reusing.