This is a Classic American ButterCream Icing which is used for decorating as well as filling. Since we use shortening, it holds its shape so good. And it is also super sweet icing. For ButterCream decorations check my Basic Cake and Cupcake Decorations post. Lets go to the ingredients now.
1 cup white Vegetable shortening (1/2 cup butter & 1/2 cup shortening can also be used for better taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 tsp milk / water
1 lb powdered sugar (very fine powder)
pinch of salt (optional)
1 tbs meringue powder (optional)
Mix shortening in medium adding vanilla extract and milk till its creamy. Now add salt and meringue powder. Then add powdered sugar gradually little by little. Blend it till the icing is well mixed and creamy.
Tips:
Always make sure the icing is stiff at first because it is easy to thin rather than to stiff it. For medium consistency add 2 tsp milk/water gradually. For thin consistency add another 2 tsp milk/water gradually.
Stiff consistency - for flowers like roses;
Medium consistency - for boarders, flowers;
Thin consistency - for writing, icing, filling.
For Chocolate ButterCream add 3/4 cup cocoa and 1 to 2 tsp milk/water to the recipe.
