Classic Strawberry Buttercream

Ingredients

Servings: 12 (see notes below)

• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
• 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar sifted
• 3-4 tablespoons cream milk, or water
• 2-3 drops red food coloring optional
• Pinch salt optional

Instructions

1. Pulse the freeze dried strawberries in a food processor until they have reached a fine powder consistency.
2. Place the softened butter, pulverized strawberries, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.
3. Beat on low until combined.
4. Gradually add in 4 cups of the powdered sugar, a half cup at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl between additions, until it becomes a thick frosting.
5. Add the cream, milk, or water a tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and has reached a texture that is thick and stable, but easy to spread.
6. Add in additional powdered sugar and liquid in small amounts if needed until you have achieved your desired frosting texture.
7. If using, add a pinch of salt to offset the tart & sweet flavors of the strawberries & powdered sugar.
8. If needed, add a couple of drops of red food coloring to add more pink tone to the frosting.
9. Turn off your mixer and place the frosting in a piping bag, or spread over a prepared and cooked cake or cupcakes, then decorate as desired.
10. ENJOY!