Step 1

Cream butter and shortening with an electric mixer until well blended. A stand-alone mixer works best.

Step 2

Add the vanilla and mix until blended.

Step 3

Gradually add sugar one cup at a time, beating well on medium speed. Stop in between each cup to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.

Step 4

The icing will start to get dry, you can gradually add your milk or heavy whipping cream. Keep mixing until everything is fluffy and smooth. If you would like to color the icing, this is the stage you would do that. Just add the gel coloring and mix on medium speed until well blended.

Step 5

You can now place the icing in a bag for piping your cupcakes or ice your cake.