Description
Chocolate fudge frosting is a rich, velvety topping that enhances any dessert with deep chocolate flavor. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or brownies, this indulgent yet simple recipe is versatile enough for celebrations or everyday treats.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- ¾ cup cocoa powder (sifted)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:
- Espresso powder
- Melted dark chocolate
- Marshmallow fluff
- Peanut butter
- Crushed cookies
Substitutions:
- Vegan butter for dairy-free
- Coconut cream or whole milk instead of heavy cream
- Dutch-process or natural cocoa
- Sugar substitutes
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in cocoa powder until smooth and lump-free.
- Gradually whisk in powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, until a creamy consistency is reached.
- Add vanilla extract and salt.
- Beat the mixture with a whisk or hand mixer until light and fluffy.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken before using.
Notes
- For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
- For a smoother texture, always sift powdered sugar and cocoa.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and rewhisk before using.
- Customize with spices (cinnamon, chili, cardamom), nuts, or peppermint extract.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: Stovetop + Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: ~24g
- Sodium: ~20mg
- Fat: ~9g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~26g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~1g
- Cholesterol: ~20mg