Home made Icing (perfect for fancy cakes)

    This recipe I got out of my baking cook book The Taste of Home Baking. I tried on Tuckers 4th birthday cake because he wanted a super hero cake. So I did a three layer cake and each layer was a different super hero theme, My cake came out pretty messy but I was on a time schedule, however I left the cake out over night and the icing got hard, which is good, If I had taken the time to smooth it out the icing would have been a lot prettier the next day once it hardened. I'm still proud of it though it was my first time making it and Tucker couldn't have been more happier! Next time I will take the time out to smooth everything.

(Note: All accessories were made from cardboard and construction paper)

What you will Need:

1-1/2 cups butter, softened 

15 cups confectioners' sugar

3/4 cup half-and-half cream

1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt

Food Coloring (any kind is fine, I used liquid)

    In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar ( I had to add confectioners' sugar a few cups at a time). Add the cream, vanilla and salt; beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. (Frosting may need to be made in batches, I did not have to but is in the book). Once frosting is mixed and ready (there will be a lot), separate into bowls, and add food coloring.

    For decorating, frosting can be put into pastry bags or heavy duty resealable plastic bags. Place decorating tips onto bags and viola. When decorating cover remaining frosting with a damp clean cloth until ready to use.

You can also find The Taste of Home Baking on Amazon.com