Fluffy Nutella Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients

• 1 cupunsalted butter, room temperature (2 sticks)
• 2 cupspowdered sugar (confectioner's sugar)
• 2/3 cupNutella or other chocolate-hazelnut spread
• 1 teaspoonpure vanilla extract
• 1 pinchfine-grain sea salt or table salt (up to 1/4 teaspoon, to taste)
• 2 tablespoonsheavy whipping cream

Directions

1. 1

   In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter and powdered sugar on low until well-blended.

2. 2

   Add the Nutella and increase the speed to medium. Beat for two minutes until fluffy and luscious.

3. 3

   Add the vanilla extract and salt and whip for an additional 30 seconds.

4. 4

   Add the heavy whipping cream and beat for about one minute, until the frosting lightens slightly in both color and texture.

5. 5

   Use a piping tip and pastry bag, or snip the corner off a plastic bag, to frost cupcakes or cake as desired.