This smooth, creamy crisco buttercream frosting is easy to make and perfect for decorating all your favorite dessert recipes.
This frosting brings a light, buttery flavor that complements any dessert.
This classic frosting is made with Crisco shortening, butter, and powdered sugar, giving it a fluffy texture that’s easy to work with and perfect for piping.
The addition of butter creates a rich, creamy flavor, while the Crisco helps the frosting maintain its shape and texture.
Whether you’re decorating special cakes or just sweetening up your everyday cupcake recipes, this frosting recipe will elevate your baking to the next level.

How to Make Buttercream Frosting with Crisco
Start by adding equal parts of Crisco shortening and butter into your stand mixer. Blend on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold butter can make it difficult to blend properly.


Gradually sift in powdered sugar, a cup at a time, while mixing on low. This helps prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl.
Add a splash of good quality vanilla extract for flavor, and then pour in a small amount of milk. The milk will help adjust the consistency.
You can easily customize the flavor of your frosting by adding different extracts like almond extract or mint.

Mix everything together until smooth and fluffy.
Turn the mixer to medium-high speed and whip the frosting for 4-5 minutes. This will help incorporate air into the frosting, making it light and airy.
Scrape down the side of the bowl, and check the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little milk, and if it’s too thin, add a small amount of sugar until it’s just right.

To add color to vanilla frosting, use gel or paste food coloring after the frosting is fully mixed. Start with a small amount, mix well, and adjust until the desired shade is reached, ensuring the consistency remains smooth.
Don’t forget to scroll down for the printable recipe card with all the ingredients and step-by-step instructions!

For beautifully decorated cupcakes or intricate cake designs, transfer your vanilla buttercream into a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip. The consistency of Crisco frosting makes it perfect for piping.
For even more expert tips and tricks on creating stunning cakes, be sure to check out my Cake Decorating eBook!

Yes, you can make this frosting a day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to a day or refrigerate it for up to a week. Let it soften before using it again.
Both butter and Crisco have their advantages. Butter gives frosting a rich flavor and creamy texture, while Crisco (shortening) helps achieve a more stable, firm consistency, especially in warm conditions. The best choice depends on your preferences and the environment in which the frosting will be used.
Crisco is often used in buttercream frosting to improve its texture and stability. It helps the frosting hold its shape better and prevents it from softening too quickly, making it a great option for cakes that need to hold up in warmer conditions or for decorating.
Yes, Crisco-based frosting can harden when left at room temperature, as the shortening helps create a firmer texture compared to butter-only frosting. This makes it ideal for piping decorations and keeping them in place.
If your Crisco frosting is too runny, it may be because too much liquid (such as milk or vanilla) was added, or the frosting wasn’t whipped long enough to achieve the desired consistency. Try adding more powdered sugar or beating the mixture for a bit longer to help thicken it.
If you’re aiming for a pure white frosting, try using clear vanilla extract instead of traditional vanilla. The darker extracts can tint the frosting slightly, so using clear will keep your frosting looking white and vibrant.
If you loved learning how to make the perfect frosting, you’ll want to try these irresistible recipes next! Indulge in rich and moist chocolate cupcakes, or keep things classic with fluffy vanilla cake or vanilla cupcakes. Pair any of these with a creamy cream cheese frosting for the ultimate treat that’s sure to wow. And if you’re celebrating a special occasion, don’t miss out on our delicious birthday cake recipes that are perfect for any celebration. Try them all for the sweetest moments!













Vanilla Buttercream Frosting with Crisco
This Crisco vanilla buttercream frosting is perfectly creamy, light, and easy to work with for beautiful cupcake and cake decorating. It has a smooth texture and delicious vanilla flavor that pairs well with any baked treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Crisco
- 1 cup of butter
- 6 cups powdered sugar, scooped and leveled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 tbsp milk* see notes
Instructions
- Add Crisco and butter to the mixer and blend well.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Pour in milk
- Whip on HIGH for 4-5 mins so that the buttercream doubles in volume
Dora Viera
Wednesday 8th of May 2024
This is the best buttercream frosting recipe ever.
Phyllis
Saturday 4th of February 2023
I was looking for this recipe that I used to use all the time but I misplaced it. Love this frosting.