Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

By Addie

This rich, buttery frosting has just the right amount of sweetness. So it's a perfect compliment to any flavor cake.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup water
• 6 egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups butter, softened
• 6 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

Preparation

Step 1

In a heavy saucepan, bring sugar and water to a boil; cook over medium-high heat until sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat. Add a small amount of hot mixture to egg yolks; return all to the pan, stirring constantly. Cook 2 minutes longer or until mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla. Cool to room temperature.

In a bowl with the whisk attachment, cream butter until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually beat in cooked sugar mixture. Beat in confectioners' sugar until fluffy, about 5 minutes. If necessary, refrigerate until frosting reaches spreading consistency. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 3 cups.
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CLASSIC CHOCOLATE BUTTERCREAM FROSTING:

Prepare buttercream frosting as directed above and set aside. In a saucepan or microwave, melt 1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips with 1/4 cup water; stir until smooth. Remove from heat; cool to room temperature. Stir into buttercream frosting. Yield: 3 cups.
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REVIEW:

I made this frosting for some cupcakes. The frosting turned out really good. The process kind of long to make it, but it was worth it. I will make it again.