Fluffy Vanilla Frosting

I just posted my basic buttercream recipe and though these recipes are very similar, I use both of them for different things, so I think they each deserve their own spot in the limelight. 

This one is fluffier and lighter due to the long whipping time.  It takes a little longer to make but makes a smoother, lighter, buttercream.  I like it better for frosting cupcakes.

For my cakes, or when I need a stiff frosting for piping, I use the basic buttercream I posted yesterday.  These recipes are basics but they are too good not to share.  I use them over and over again!

Tip- If you want to get your vanilla frosting super-white, just add a little white food coloring.  I have a big bottle of AmeriColor white and I love it!  It takes away yellow-tinges from butter, and brown tinges from vanilla extract.  For just a few dollars I feel like it makes a big difference in how my frosting looks. 

Fluffy Vanilla Frosting

Recipe from Sweetapolita

-3 sticks + 2 Tbsp butter, softened

-3.5 cups powdered sugar

-3 Tbsp milk

-1 Tbsp pure vanilla

With an electric mixer*, whip butter for 8 minutes on medium until pale and creamy.

Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla and mix on low for 1 minute. Increase to medium and whip for 6 minutes. 

Use to frost right away.

*The basic paddle attachment is fine.  No need to use the whisk.