My family really likes my bc recipe but said it was way too sweet. I need help finding one that is less sweet but still will crust nicely since I use the viva method. the current recipe that i use is: 2 lbs.powdered sugar, 1 stick butter, 1-1/2 cups solid vegetable shortening
2 tbsp. clear vanilla extract 1/3 cup water for icing cake. Any suggestions? TIA

i use 50/50 shortening and salted butter...my customers love it...

it's an ivory color...but it looks pretty.

I used this recipe and liked it for a less sweet buttercream:

http://www.cakecentral.com/cake_recipe-2523-Julies-Less-Sweet-Buttercream-Frosting.html

I agree with Shola. That recipe is awesome. I really get a lot of compliments on it.

I use a bc recipe that has flour and salt in it, and it's great.

1/2 c. cake flour
1 1/2 c. Shortening (you can use half butter, but it makes it a lot softer)
1/2 c. warm water
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2 tsp butter extract
1 tsp popcorn salt
2 lbs powdered sugar

Combine flour and shortening until smooth. Mix water, salt, and flavoring in separate bowl. When flour shortening is smooth alternate powdered sugar and liquid until you get a consistency you like. Flavorings are to taste as well.

Darci