SIMPLE BUTTERCREAM FROSTING

SIMPLE BUTTERCREAM FROSTING
We got some cherries from Bountiful Baskets. Abagail was treats for FHE so of course she wanted to make cupcakes with a cherry on top (she says this every week).  She wanted white frosting.  I had a cherry chip cake mix that we used.  I don't normally like white frosting but this was really, really good.  I cut the recipe in half.  It didn't frost all of these (12 big, 24 small) but that is okay.  I added the full amount of vanilla and about 1/2 tsp of almond extract.  Only added 1 T of milk. 

This is found in the OurBestBites cookbook pg 58.

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (no substitutions)
1 pinch salt
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
4-6 T cream or milk - more or less as needed
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract (use clear vanilla if want it more white)
almond, lemon, or peppermint extract, to taste, optional

Beat butter until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.  Sift powdered sugar and add to butter.  Beat on low speed until combined and then on medium-high sped for a full minute.  Add extracts.  Reduce speed and add milk, on tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition, until desired consistency is reached.  Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.

For chocolate buttercream add 1/3-1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, to taste, and additional cream as needed.