Instructions

1. Add the butter and the vanilla extract to a mixing bowl. The butter should be “slightly softened” which means it is still cold but has warmed up enough so you can press your thumb down into the stick of butter.
2. Mix the butter and the vanilla together on medium speed until thoroughly combined (about 2 minutes.) Use a spatula to scrape the butter and vanilla mixture down from the sides of the bowl before moving on to the next step.
3. In a separate bowl, use a food scale to measure 1 Pound of Powdered Sugar.  If you don’t have a food scale, measure 4 cups instead.
4. Add the Cocoa Powder to the bowl with the Powdered Sugar.
5. Use a fork to whisk the Cocoa Powder and Powdered Sugar.
6. Pour the Cocoa Powder/Powdered Sugar mixture into the mixing bowl with the butter/vanilla mixture.
7. Start your mixer (or electric beater) on the lowest setting and keep it on low until the butter and sugar are incorporated (about 30 seconds).
8. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl and then increase the speed to medium-high and mix for another 30-45 seconds so the frosting gets light and fluffy.
9. Taste your frosting to determine if the consistency is correct or if it needs more milk or maybe a little more vanilla extract. If it tastes great, test the consistency.  Too thick? Add milk a teaspoon at a time and mix again to check to see if it is now the right consistency.