Butter Frosting

Steps

Original

1. In a small mixer bowl beat butter till light and fluffy
2. Gradually add about half of the powdered sugar, beating well
3. Beat in the milk and the vanilla
4. Gradually beat in remaining powdered sugar, then additional milk, if necessary, to make frosting of spreading consistency

Frosts tops and sides of two 8- or 9-inch layers

Variations

Creamy Butter Frosting

1. Substitute 1 egg instead of the 1/4 cup milk
2. After adding remaining powdered sugar, beat in enough milk, if necessary, to make frosting of spreading consistency

Chocolate Butter Frosting

1. Add 2 squares (2 ounces) unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled, with the vanilla

Mocha Butter Frosting

1. Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 teaspoon of instant coffee crystals to the butter

Orange or Lemon Butter Frosting

1. Add 1 teaspoon finely shredded orange peel or 1/2 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel with vanilla
2. Use orange juice or lemon juice instead of milk

Peanut Butter Frosting

1. Substitute smooth or crunchy peanut butter instead of the butter, and add additional milk, if necessary, to make frosting of spreading consistency