Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (226g / 16 Tbsp) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 ½ - 5 cups (480-600g) confectioners' sugar, sifted if lumpy
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (about ⅛ teaspoon, or to taste)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and creamy. This takes about 2 minutes.
  2. Add 4 ½ cups of confectioners' sugar, the heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract to the bowl.
  3. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds to avoid a powdered sugar explosion.
  4. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 full minutes until light and fluffy.
  5. Taste the frosting. Add a pinch of salt if it's too sweet.
  6. If the frosting is too thin, add more confectioners' sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until desired consistency is reached. If it's too thick, add more heavy cream (or milk), 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
  7. Use the frosting immediately or store according to instructions.