Easy Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
This easy Chocolate Buttercream Frosting is rich, creamy, and filled with chocolate flavor. It is ready in about 15 minutes and makes enough to frost a layer cake or approximately 24 cupcakes.
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Servings: 24 servings
Calories: 211kcal
Ingredients
- 1½ cups butter, softened
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk, (you may need less)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt, optional if using unsalted butter
Directions
- Add the softened butter to a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cocoa powder and mix on low speed until completely incorporated.
- Add the powdered sugar about 1 cup at a time, alternating with small amounts of the milk. Begin mixing on low speed after each addition, then increase to medium speed once incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt, if using. Beat the frosting on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes, until light, smooth, and fluffy.
- Check the consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time. If it is too thin, add additional powdered sugar, a few tablespoons at a time.
- Use immediately to frost a cooled cake, cupcakes, brownies, or cookies.
Notes
- You might not need the entire ½ cup of milk. Add it gradually so the frosting does not become too thin.
- Natural unsweetened cocoa powder creates a classic chocolate flavor.
- Dutch-process cocoa powder may also be used for a darker color and smoother flavor.
- For the smoothest frosting, sift the cocoa powder and powdered sugar before adding them.
- This recipe makes approximately 5 cups, which is enough to generously frost a two-layer 8- or 9-inch cake or approximately 24 cupcakes.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let it soften at room temperature, then beat it briefly before using.
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 211 kcal | Carbohydrates: 27 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 12 g | Saturated Fat: 3 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g | Cholesterol: 1 mg | Sodium: 161 mg | Potassium: 69 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 25 g | Vitamin A: 516 IU | Vitamin C: 0.03 mg | Calcium: 15 mg | Iron: 1 mg
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