Fluffy Buttercream Icing

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon meringue powder
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon flavoring of choice
16 ounces confectioners' sugar
1 cup Crisco
2 tablespoons milk

Beat until thick granulated sugar, meringue powder and water; set aside.

Cream together remaining ingredients. Add 1/2 of first mixture and beat well and then add second half and do the same. Do not under-beat.