Ingredients:

  • cup (227g) Unsalted Butter, softened to cool room temperature
  • cups (450g) Powdered Sugar, sifted
  • –5 tablespoons Heavy Cream or Whole Milk
  • teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
  • /8 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt

Instructions:

  1. Ensure the butter is perfectly softened. Place the softened butter into the mixing bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
  2. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is lightened in colour and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Scrape down the sides thoroughly using a rubber spatula.
  3. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on the lowest speed until just combined before adding the next addition to prevent a sugar cloud.
  4. Once all sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-low and beat for 2 minutes until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Scrape down sides again.
  5. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Begin adding the heavy cream/milk one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until the desired consistency is approached.
  6. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and whip for a final 3-5 minutes until the frosting is visibly lighter, fluffy, and smooth. This step develops the silky texture.
  7. Check the consistency. If too stiff, add another teaspoon of cream; if too loose, add a tablespoon of sifted powdered sugar. Beat briefly to combine and use immediately or store.