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up close image of chocolate buttercream icing

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories: 154kcal
Author: Becky Hardin
Ditch the store bought chocolate frosting and whip up a batch of this easy and delicious Chocolate Buttercream Icing! Perfect for a fluffy crowning on cakes and cupcakes.
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter 226 grams, room temperature (2 sticks)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 4 grams
  • 4 cups powdered sugar 452 grams
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 63 grams
  • ¼ cup whole milk 57 grams, room temperature

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, cream the butter until smooth, about 1 minute
    1 cup unsalted butter
  • Add the vanilla extract, and beat to incorporate
    1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Using a fine-mesh sieve, sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then mix until well combined
    4 cups powdered sugar, ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Slowly add the milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach desired consistency.
    ¼ cup whole milk
  • Mix on low for about 1 minute to achieve a light and airy icing
  • Use a piping bag and tip (Ateco # 828 - Open Star Pastry Tip .63'') or other icing tool to decorate your cooled cakes.

Video

Notes

  • This recipe yields 3 cups (48 tablespoons) of frosting. A serving is 2 tablespoons.
  • It takes butter 30-60 minutes to soften at room temperature.
  • I'd avoid using the microwave to melt the butter. Even if you have a turntable, butter softens unevenly.
  • Leave out the cocoa powder for a perfect classic vanilla buttercream icing.
  • Confectioner’s sugar is another term for powdered sugar.
Storage: Store chocolate buttercream frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoons | Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 48mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 240IU | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg