Buttercream icing

1/2 cup shortening, solid
1/2 cup butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups sifted powdered sugar (1 lb)
2 tbsp milk

IN an electric mixer cream butter and shortening.  Add vanilla and gradually add sugar beating well on medium speed.  It will appear dry, scrape sides down and begin adding milk and beat at medium speed until it is light and fluffy.  I refrigerate until I am ready to frost a cake.

Note- If you looking for a white colored frosting use clear vanilla extract and use all shortening (omit butter).