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4.88 from 16 votes
A bowl of chocolate buttercream frosting.
Best-Ever Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
Prep Time
10 mins
 

Perfect for topping an incredible amount of desserts, my Best-Ever Chocolate Buttercream Frosting recipe is even great straight from a spoon.

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 cups
Author: Gemma Stafford
Ingredients
  • 3 cups (12 oz/360 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 cup (4 oz/115 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (8 oz/225 g) butter (room temperature)
  • 3-4 tablespoons whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon espresso powder (dissolved)
Instructions
  1. In a large bowl sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa to remove any lumps. Set aside.

  2. Place the room temperature butter in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on high speed until fluffy and pale in color, roughly 2-3 minutes.

  3. Turn the machine down to medium-low speed and slowly add the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time until fully incorporated.

  4. Scrape down the bowl and add the vanilla, salt, espresso, and 3 tablespoons of milk. Beat on high speed for roughly 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the extra tablespoon of milk if you want a thinner frosting.

  5. Your frosting is ready to decorate or you can put it in the fridge to firm up for a minimum of 30 minutes but up to 5 days. Allow to sit out at room temperature for 1 hour before using.