Real Strawberry Frosting

1 . Stage

Place strawberries in a blender; purée until smooth.

2 . Stage

Transfer strawberry purée to a saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil, stirring often, until reduced by at least half, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool completely.

3 . Stage

Beat butter with an electric mixer in a bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 cup confectioners' sugar until combined. Beat 2 tablespoons cooled strawberry purée and vanilla extract into butter mixture until just blended.

4 . Stage

Beat in 1 cup confectioners' sugar until combined, followed by 2 tablespoons strawberry purée. Repeat this step once more.

5 . Stage

Beat remaining 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar into mixture until just blended.