Dessert & Treats Recipes Cake Recipes Fillings & Frostings Buttercream Frosting Recipes Basic Vanilla Buttercream 3.5 (769) 24 Reviews By Martha Stewart Editors Martha Stewart Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter Website An article attributed to "Martha Stewart Editors" indicates when several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The Martha Stewart team aims to teach and inspire readers daily with tested-until-perfected recipes, creative DIY projects, and elevated home and entertaining ideas. They are experts in their fields who research, create, and test the best ways to help readers design the life they want. The joy is in the doing. Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 26, 2020 Print Share Share Tweet Pin Email Total Time: 5 mins Yield: 30 cupcakes Ask any pastry chef about frostings and they'll tell you that there's nothing like a good basic vanilla buttercream. This American-style vanilla buttercream from chef Billy Reece of Billy's Bakery in NYC requires just four ingredients and comes together in just about as many minutes. Smooth, fluffy, and creamy, it's ideal for all kinds of cakes, from cupcakes to multi-layered confections. Ingredients 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 6 to 8 cups confectioners' sugar ½ cup milk 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Directions In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat butter until smooth and creamy, 2 to 3 minutes. With mixer on low speed, add 6 cups sugar, milk, and vanilla; mix until light and fluffy. If necessary, gradually add remaining 2 cups sugar to reach desired consistency. Johnny Miller Print