Buttercream Icing Recipe With Crisco: Smooth and Stable for Perfect Piping

This buttercream delivers perfect piping consistency every time, thanks to the stability of shortening combined with rich butter flavor.

Ideal for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this icing holds its shape while remaining smooth and spreadable. The balance of sweetness and texture makes it a reliable choice for any decoration project.

Ingredients for Buttercream Icing Recipe with Crisco

Seven ingredients transform into a stable, pipeable icing with rich butter flavor.

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The shortening is non-negotiable here—Crisco all-vegetable shortening delivers the stability this icing needs for piping. Butter adds richness, so use a high-quality brand like Land O’Lakes or Plugrá. The powdered sugar must be sifted (lumps ruin the texture). For the milk, whole milk provides the best consistency, but 2% works in a pinch (avoid skim).

No shortening? Hi-ratio shortening works even better but is harder to find. Out of vanilla? Vanilla bean paste at half the amount adds visual appeal. Need it dairy-free? Swap in unsweetened almond milk. The almond extract is optional but adds complexity—pure extract only (no imitation). If your buttercream seems too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time.

Room temperature ingredients are key. Store finished icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for 1 week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using. Freezing isn’t recommended—texture suffers upon thawing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Buttercream Icing With Crisco

Achieve professional results with this method, ensuring a smooth, pipeable texture every time.

Step 1: Cream the Shortening and Butter

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the 0.5 cup Vegetable Shortening and 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes. The mixture should become pale and fluffy, with no visible lumps of butter remaining.

This step is critical for incorporating air into the fat, which creates a light and stable base for the icing. The shortening provides structure, while the butter adds flavor. Stop the mixer periodically to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a silicone spatula to ensure even mixing.

Step 2: Gradually Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the 4 cups Powdered Sugar, about 1 cup at a time. Allow each addition to fully incorporate before adding the next. This prevents a cloud of sugar from forming and ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.

Once all the powdered sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and beat for an additional 1-2 minutes. The mixture will appear dry and crumbly at first, but it will come together as the fat and sugar combine. Watch for the icing to lighten slightly in color and develop a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients and Flavorings

With the mixer still on low speed, add the 2 tbsp Whole Milk, 2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract, 0.25 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Almond Extract. Mix until the liquids are fully incorporated and the icing is smooth. The almond extract enhances the vanilla flavor, but it’s potent, so the small quantity is intentional.

Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for another 2-3 minutes. The icing should now be light, fluffy, and hold its shape when the paddle is lifted. If it appears too thick, add a few drops of milk, but be cautious—too much liquid will make the icing too soft for piping.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency for Piping

Test the consistency by scooping a small amount of icing and pressing it gently with your finger. It should hold its shape but be smooth and spreadable. If it’s too stiff, add additional milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, mixing well after each addition.

For piping intricate designs or borders, the icing should be slightly firmer. If it’s too soft, add a small amount of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved. This icing is designed to maintain its stability, thanks to the shortening, making it ideal for decorating.

Make-Ahead Tips for buttercream icing recipe with crisco

⏰ Week Before

If you want to get a head start, you can prepare the dry ingredients for your buttercream icing recipe with Crisco. Measure and sift your powdered sugar and set it aside in an airtight container. This ensures everything is ready to go when you start mixing. 💡 Pro tip: Sifting prevents lumps and guarantees a silky-smooth texture!

🍳 Day Before

Make the full batch of buttercream icing and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Since Crisco is shelf-stable, your icing will keep well for 24–48 hours without refrigeration. If your kitchen is warm, place it in a cool, dark spot. Stir briefly before using to restore its creamy consistency.

👨‍🍳 Day Of

If you stored the icing overnight, give it a quick rewhip with a mixer for 1–2 minutes to fluff it up. If the weather is humid, add a teaspoon of milk or water to adjust the consistency for piping. This step ensures your buttercream is light and easy to work with.

✨ Last-Minute Tasks

Before decorating, check the icing’s texture. If it feels too stiff, thin it with small amounts of liquid, one teaspoon at a time. For best results, use it immediately after adjusting. This final tweak guarantees perfect peaks and smooth application every time!