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the absolute best buttercream frosting... ever!

(24 ratings)
Blue Ribbon Recipe by
Whitney Froehlich
Bellville, TX

For years I have searched and searched and searched... and even did some more searching to find a frosting that was identical or almost identical to the frosting you taste from a bakery. And I finally found one! This one right here! You have to try it! I'm tired of the same ole' "butter, powdered sugar and vanilla" type frosting. This frosting can actually be a little expensive because it calls for 5 different extracts. But it's so well worth it. Especially if you're really wanting that "wow factor."

Blue Ribbon Recipe

Buttercream frosting that makes you go 'Mmmm..." It's silky smooth, rich, and decadent. Lemon, orange, almond, vanilla... they're all here, and they're all so delicious. There's a slight citrus flavor, but it's not overpowering. This is a homemade frosting you can use on just about anything from cupcakes to a special occasion cake. A must try!

— The Test Kitchen @kitchencrew
(24 ratings)
yield serving(s)
prep time 15 Min
method No-Cook or Other

Ingredients For the absolute best buttercream frosting... ever!

  • 1 c
    Crisco
  • 1 c
    lightly salted butter (regular salted butter will work too)
  • 2 Tbsp
    meringue powder
  • 1 tsp
    pure vanilla extract (may want to use a clear vanilla for a pure white frosting)
  • 1 tsp
    butter flavoring
  • 1/2 tsp
    almond extract
  • 1/4 tsp
    orange extract
  • 1/4 tsp
    lemon extract
  • 2 lb
    powdered sugar (must be brand name - store brand will not work)
  • 5-6 Tbsp
    warm water
  • 1/4 tsp
    salt

How To Make the absolute best buttercream frosting... ever!

Test Kitchen Tips
This makes a lot of frosting. It's perfect for a layered cake, and you'll still have plenty left to pipe on a design.
  • Salt dissolves in a bowl of water.
    1
    In a small cup, measure out water and salt. Set aside and let the salt dissolve.
  • Creaming Crisco and butter.
    2
    If you have a standing mixer it is highly recommended. But a handheld mixer with a very large bowl will work also. Cream together the Crisco and butter until well combined.
  • Meringue powder and extracts added to the bowl.
    3
    Add meringue powder, plus all the extracts and flavorings. Mix well.
  • Slowly adding powdered sugar.
    4
    On low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar until well combined. It will get clumpy after the whole 2 lbs. has been distributed.
  • Mixing in salt water.
    5
    Continue on low speed and gradually add salt/water mix. Add more water to the frosting if necessary.
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