Brownie Cupcakes

Browine truffle cupcakes I made for older daughter's birthday. The brownies are from a mix -- Trader Joes -- but the icing is from scratch. Because this icing is so smooth and velvety, it pipes very nicely! Younger daughter added the strawberries for a pop of color and flavor!

Buttercream Icing
1 stick of butter
1 cup of shortening
1 teaspooon of vanilla extract
3 1/2 to 4 cups of confectioners sugar
2 tablespoons of milk

Cream together the butter and shortening with an electric mixer. Add the vanilla. Slowly add the sugar, 1/2 cup at a time. I add the milk as needed to thin the icing as I incorporate the sugar.