Cookie Bookie

Decorating Icing (piping kid's cakes)

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract (or regular)
4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar (approximately 1 lb.)
2 tablespoons milk

In large bowl, beat shortening and butter with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla.

Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on medium speed. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. When all sugar has been mixed in, icing will appear dry.

Gradually add milk; beat at medium speed until light and fluffy.

For thin (spreading) consistency icing, add 2 tablespoons light corn syrup, water or milk.

Keep bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use.