For a less sweet buttercream, use salted butter.

If you are using a handheld mixer, start at a slow speed. This will keep the sugar from flying out everywhere. [3] X Research source To make the texture even smoother, sift the sugar first. This will break up any clumps.

To give your buttercream color, add in a bit of icing coloring. Using the gel kind instead of the liquid kind will mix easier into the buttercream . [4] X Research source

If you are using a handheld mixer, you can increase the speed to a higher one once the sugar is mixed in.

Use salted butter if you want less sweet buttercream.

If you are using a handheld mixer, start at a slower speed. This will keep the sugar from flying out. Try to sift the sugar into the butter. This will get rid of clumps.

If you are using a handheld mixer, you can increase the speed after the sugar and cocoa powder are mixed in.

To give the buttercream a hint of sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. To give the buttercream a hint of extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon of almond extract. To cut the sweetness and give the buttercream a richer flavor, add in a splash of brandy or rum.

You can also use other types of fruit as well.