Chocolate Buttercream Frosting /Icing

By carvalhohm2

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter – softened – 12 Tablespoons
• 3 cups powdered sugar – sifted (sift after measuring)
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – sifted (sift after measuring)
• 7-8 Tbs. milk – room temp
• 1 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Details

Servings 3
Adapted from dishinwithdi.com

Preparation

Step 1

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter until fluffy and very pale in color, about 3-5 minutes. Start with the mixer on low and move it up to about medium-high. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

With the mixer on low, gradually add the cocoa powder. Beat well to combine. Scrap down the sides and bottom of the bowl.

Turn the mixer off and add the vanilla extract. Mix until thoroughly combined.

With the mixer on low, add about one half cup powdered sugar. Mix until combined. Then add about 1-2 tablespoons of milk and mix until combined. Continue to add the sugar and milk alternately. Beat thoroughly after each addition.

Once all of the sugar and milk have been added, check for sweetness and add more powdered sugar if desired, but be sure to sift it first to avoid lumps. Beat for about 3 minutes, until smooth and creamy or desired consistency. If not using immediately, cover with plastic wrap placed directly on the frosting, to keep moist, until ready to use. If the frosting is exposed to the air for too long, it can become dry and form a crust, which will ruin its texture for spreading or piping.

Store in the refrigerator in an air tight container, with a piece of plastic wrap placed directly on the frosting to block any air, for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the frosting for a couple of months. Either way, when you’re ready to use it, let it soften to room temperature and then beat it with the mixer to fluff it back up again. Enjoy!

Notes: Frosting is soft at room temperature and firm when refrigerated. If frosting becomes too warm and soft to work with, cover frosting with plastic wrap placed directly on the surface and refrigerate until piping consistency. Place frosted desserts in refrigerator, until about 30 minutes before serving, so frosting has a chance to soften.