okay i have a couple of questions about buttercream first off which is better all shortning,all butter, or a mix of both?
also do i really need meringue powder or is it optional and what are the benefits of using meringue powder vs. not using it?
and should i use a recipe which calls for whipping cream or no?
depends on the kinds of icing you want. If you want super white, then use all shortening.......butter will make it off white. I prefer eating icing with butter, but decorating with all shortening. I love sugarshack's icing and also indy debi's icing...both in the recipe section 
I use Indydebi's recipe and I absolutely love it. I can get is smooth as a babys bottom. I'm gong to try sugarshacks one of these days. I use all shortening based because of heat and humidity issues.
I use Sugarsgacls personally and it is wonderful.. You would be amazed and how light and creamy it is.. It is all shortening and no meringue powder... Sometimes if I am in a hurry I will whip up Edna's recipe. Her is half butter/shortening.
I use sugarshacks recipe....it is chosen hands down over an all butter buttercream and IMBC. I do what my clients prefer, and that is what they choose. Give your clients the options, and let them make the choice!
Shortning based "buttercream" has been called that for decades, it isn't up to me to change the term! 
Now, my DH choose IMBC - that is his favorite, right next to Rich's Bettercreme. 
I also don't use any meringue powder in any of my recipes.
Loucinda, I don't use meringue powder in any of mine either. I also don't use cream of tartar. I've never had the need to and I think it affects the taste.
I was told that meringue powder is good for cakes that would be exposed to heat.Like outside in the summer.The icing will hold better.
I meant to type Sugarshack's recipe on my earlier reply.. I think I must have been up WAY too early!!
Where can you find Indy debi's recipe for buttercream. i have had lots of people suggest thats the best and i have been looking. Im new to the site and keep looking. Thanks guys
Where can you find Indy debi's recipe for buttercream. i have had lots of people suggest thats the best and i have been looking. Im new to the site and keep looking. Thanks guys
Look under recipes, it's in the "most saved".
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