The perfect frosting for the Bee Cake! Since honey is such a wonderful natural sweetener, I’ve decreased the amount of sugar in this recipe versus the basic buttercream.
½ cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
½ cup shortening
¼ cup honey
4 to 6 cups confectioners’ sugar
3 to 5 tablespoons heavy cream (more if needed)
In a stand mixer using the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl, cream together the butter, shortening, and honey at medium speed until fully incorporated. Turn the mixer to low speed and slowly add the confectioners’ sugar (start with 4 cups). Add the heavy cream as needed to create the texture of frosting you prefer and blend for about 3 minutes on medium-high, until light and fluffy. Check the consistency and sweetness and add up to 2 cups more confectioners’ sugar, as you prefer. If the frosting gets too stiff, add more heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time.