Sweet Spells Sunday: Orange Zest Buttercream

This week I'm going to share a recipe I used and loved for Orange Zest Buttercream Frosting. The recipe is originally from Wilton.

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening - 1/2 cup butter (softened) - 4 cups (approx. 1 lb.) sifted confectioners' sugar - 1-1/2 teaspoons zest of oranges, (finely grated) - 3 tablespoons orange juice

Directions:

Simply beat the shortening and butter in large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on a medium speed. Then, add the orange juice and orange zest. Beat until light and fluffy.

As a garnish I added cocoa powder (I used the icing on chocolate cupcakes) and candied orange slices!