1 tbsp vanilla extract 1 lb confectioners sugar 1 cup, or 2 sticks unsalted butter 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream 1/2 tsp salt sifter, bowl to put under sifter. gel food coloring measuring cups, and spoons stand mixer with paddle attachment container to store buttercream if not using right away

Set butter on counter for 45 minutes to come to room temperature.
Next with your stand mixer, and paddle whip butter, and salt for one minute.
Sift powdered sugar , in batches add little by little , scrape bowl after each batch.
Add in cream, and vanilla until it is the consistency you desire.
Store two days in airtight container in fridge.