How to Make Cupcake Icing

A sweet buttercream icing goes well with any type of cupcake.

What's the best part of cupcakes? The icing, of course. Making frosting from scratch is a great way to add a homemade touch to cupcake decorating. You can make a similar buttercream frosting recipe for cake; or make an easy whipped icing for a birthday cake or a fondant icing for a wedding cake.

Things You'll Need

• 1 1/2 lb. confectioners' sugar (1.5 boxes)
• 1/2 lb. unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/8 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/2 tbsp. vanilla extract
• Large bowl
• Handheld mixer

Instructions

1. Put the butter in the mixing bowl, and whip it on high speed with the handheld mixer until it's very soft.

2. Add 1 cup sugar. Lower the speed of the mixer, and stir the sugar and butter until they are well combined. Add the sugar 1 cup at a time until all of it is used.

3. Pour in the milk, and mix on low speed.

4. Add the vanilla and mix.

5. Turn the mixer to high speed and beat the icing until it is light and fluffy, two to four minutes.

Tips & Warnings

• For extra flair, top your cupcakes with sprinkles or candy.

• Give your icing some color with food coloring.

• Always wash your hands before you start a recipe.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Cupcake Recipe