Creaming

Beating softened butter with sugar or other ingredients is called creaming. This process mixes air into the butter, which helps the mixture rise when baked. It also blends the sugar into the butter, forming a smooth mixture. Beat the butter with a wooden spoon, a handheld mixer, or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer for several minutes, until creamy. Gradually add the sugar and beat with the butter for a few minutes, until the mixture is fluffy.