Classic Buttercream Frosting

• flour↗5 tablespoons
• milk↗1 cup
• granulated sugar or powdered sugar↗2 cups
• butter↗1 lb

  softened

• vanilla↗1 -2 teaspoon
• salt↗1⁄2 teaspoon

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In double boiler stirring constantly cook flour and milk, to a soft or med paste, do not worry ! It will be OK if it gets thick to. You can do this step the night before also. I have even forgot to do this and put the recipe "on hold" until I had this done and cooled.

2. 2

   Put paste in bowl, cover, cool in refrigerator, about 1/2 hour or until cooled.

3. 3

   Put paste in mixer bowl, add sugar,butter, vanilla, salt and mix. Scrape and mix some more.

4. 4

   Mix some more until granulated sugar is dissolving. Let rest for 10-15 minutes. I know this sounds funny but the granulated sugar has to dissolve. Add any of your optional flavors now.

5. 5

   Mix for another minute, test for sugar granules between your index and thumb if no sugar crystals your done if not mix a short while longer.

6. 6

   If you use powdered sugar you do not have to mix as long, it will dissolve instantly.

7. 7

   1/2 of a lemon zest and 2 teaspoons lemon juice.

8. 8

   1/4 cup cocoa powder and / or 1 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder, more or less to your taste.