Stand mixer lesson
A flat beater makes a smoother decorating buttercream than a whisk, which deliberately incorporates more air.
A pouring shield can contain sugar, but a low speed and small additions do the most important work.
Low-speed incorporation
Fluffy Vanilla American Buttercream
Published
Beat butter smooth, add sugar without a cloud, and use the flat beater for a creamy finish with controlled air.
What you need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened but not greasy
- 3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Method
- Fit the flat beater and beat the butter on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Scrape the bowl and beater.
- Add the confectioners' sugar one cup at a time on the lowest speed, waiting until each addition is dampened before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla, salt, and 2 tablespoons cream. Beat on medium-low until smooth, adding more cream a teaspoon at a time.
- For a less airy finish, mix on the lowest speed for 2 minutes, then stir and press out large bubbles by hand.
Adjust
For firmer piping, add sifted sugar in small amounts. For a softer spread, add liquid by the teaspoon.
Cover the surface when holding the frosting so it does not crust.
Products that fit this low-speed incorporation
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Cuisinart SM-50 Stand Mixer
Cuisinart SM-50 Stand Mixer is the one to buy when you want a full-size stand mixer experience while keeping the spend under control.
GE Profile Smart Mixer
GE Profile Smart Mixer makes the most sense for tech-forward kitchens that want the mixer to do more of the thinking.
Safety note: Refrigerate buttercream made with dairy for longer storage and follow the two-hour room-temperature rule for perishable foods.