Quick and Almost-Professional Buttercream Icing

1 . Stage

Cream butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth and fluffy. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

2 . Stage

Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar until fully incorporated. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

3 . Stage

Beat in vanilla extract. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

4 . Stage

Add milk and beat for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

5 . Stage

Add food coloring, if using, and beat for thirty seconds until smooth or until desired color is reached. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

6 . Stage

Use immediately or store buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios