I am using the regular buttercream recipe and everytime my icing looks like it is cracked. (this is before I pick it up). Am I doing something wrong? I use the Viva method to make it smooth and it still looks "cracked". HELP!!

Anyone??

I find this happens when it's too dry. You may need to add more milk/water or lessen the icing sugar ratio. I find that this happens a lot with the crisco/butter combo.

I use crisco, powder sugar, vanilla, and water. Any ideas?

it shouldn't happen if you add more water. i make mine with the same things you do. I add water and mix in the KA til it is very fluffy (alsmost like whip cream and i have never had a problem with cracking.....so dont be afraid to add more water!