Ingredients:
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
3 to 4 cups (360 to 480 g) powdered sugar
2 to 4 tbsp (30 to 60 ml) heavy cream or milk
1 to 2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (optional)
Method:
Beat softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
Add heavy cream/milk and vanilla; beat until fluffy.
Adjust consistency:
For stiffer frosting, add more powdered sugar.
For softer frosting, add more cream/milk, 1 tsp at a time.
If needed, beat a little longer to improve texture.
Optional variations:
Chocolate: add 1/2 to 1 cup cocoa powder with the powdered sugar.
Salted caramel: use salted butter and add a splash of caramel sauce; reduce added cream as needed.
Buttercream flavor boost: add 1/2 to 1 tsp almond extract or lemon zest (reduce liquid if adding zest).