Cupcake Frosting

4 cups confectioners' sugar
1 cup shortening (or 1/2 cup shortening and 1/2 cup butter)
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon clear imitation vanilla extract

1. In a large bowl, combine sugar, shortening, water and vanilla. Beat on low speed to combine, then beat on medium speed for a full five minutes. It won't look like Icing at first, but keep the mixer going for a full five minutes, and then you're done!
2. Note: If you're not using this for decorating, but just for icing the cake, thin the icing by adding 3 tbs. of corn syrup, or water to the icing.

This recipe is the bomb. It's the most important icing recipe you'll ever have. It's really easy, fast, and makes decorating cakes/cupcakes so much easier!