Vanilla Buttercream
Prep time: 
Total time: 
Yield: enough frosting for a 2-layer 9" cake
 
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Soy-Free Option

This buttercream frosting is sweet, fluffy, and flavorful--perfect for finishing off nearly any cake. The addition of a little salt and vinegar helps to enhance the flavor and cut the sweetness just a smidge.
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Earth Balance buttery spread
  • 1 cup vegetable shortening
  • 3 cups confectioner’s sugar (see Notes)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. Place the Earth Balance and shortening in a large medium-sized mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer to to lightly beat them together for a few seconds.
  2. Begin adding the confectioner's sugar a little at a time, mixing to incorporate well after each addition.
  3. After adding roughly half of the sugar, mix in the salt, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
  4. Beat in the remaining sugar, still adding a little at at time. Continue to whip the frosting for a few moments more until light and fluffy.
  5. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
Notes
The measurements for the confectioner's sugar are unsifted; simply scoop and level each cup with a finger.

Soy-Free Option: Use soy-free Earth Balance and palm shortening.
Recipe by Leaves of Kale at http://www.leavesofkale.com/2014/10/pumpkin-spice-cake-with-vanilla-buttercream-vegan-gluten-free/