Buttercream Icing

Ingredients and Weight:

• Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks)
• Powdered sugar: 3 cups
• Cream or milk: 2-3 tbsp
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (optional)
• Salt: a pinch (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Total Time: 30-45 minutes (depends on mixing and cooling time)

Cooking Time:

• This is not a cooked dish. It's prepared by mixing and cooling.

Difficulty Level:

• Level 2 (Moderate): Basic mixing skills and patience required.

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, soften the butter at room temperature.
2. Add the powdered sugar gradually and mix well with a mixer or spoon.
3. Add cream or milk and vanilla extract (if using) and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
4. Add a pinch of salt to enhance taste (optional).
5. Continue mixing until the icing is of desired consistency and flavor.
6. Cover and let it cool down before serving.

Nutritional Information: (Based on the ingredients mentioned)

• Calories: Approx. 500 per serving (serving size varies)
• Carbohydrates: High due to sugar content.
• Fat: Moderate due to butter content.
• Protein: Low.

Dish Characteristics:

• Sweet and creamy taste with a smooth and soft texture. Perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes or as a spread for cookies or bread.

User Comments:

1. "This is the best buttercream icing I have ever made! So smooth and delicious." - John Doe, New York.
2. "I added a few drops of pink color to make it look more festive. My kids loved it!" - Jane Smith, Los Angeles.
3. "I used this icing for my wedding cake and it was a hit! So creamy and rich." - Michael Johnson, San Francisco.

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumpy texture in the icing.
• Start with less milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency and then add more if needed.
• If the icing becomes too soft or runny, refrigerate for a while to set it back to the right texture.