Chocolate Fudge Frosting

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Every time I’m invited to a party, it doesn’t matter what kind of party, I bring something with chocolate! I’ve always been a fan of chocolate chip cookies, chocolate cake, chocolate cupcakes… you get the idea! But when I really want to impress my friends and family, I make my own frosting instead of buying it from the store. I find that fresh, homemade frosting is creamier and more decadent. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress everyone you know! It’s much easier than you think!

Did you know that it wasn’t until the 1830s in America that chocolate was used for frostings and cakes? Until then, “chocolate was primarily consumed as a beverage.” It’s weird to think about going to a bakery without seeing chocolate cakes, cupcakes, and more covered in delicious frosting. By the mid-20^th century, frosting and chocolate cakes became more popular and were a staple at parties and events!

Personally, I love chocolate frosting on almost any kind of cake flavor! Check out this chocolate cake recipe or chocolate peanut butter cake and try it with this chocolate fudge frosting recipe.

If you’ve finished frosting your cake and have leftover frosting, why not use it as a dipping for pretzels and graham crackers? Who could resist that? This recipe is so good that you won’t be able to resist! It’s smooth, creamy, and has just the right amount of sweetness–not too much, not too little. This frosting will elevate whatever dessert you choose to serve it with!

How to Make the Best Chocolate Fudge Frosting

When making frosting, it’s important to allow the butter to sit at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes beforehand. Otherwise, it will be more challenging to incorporate the butter into the rest of the ingredients. Avoid the temptation to use the microwave–sometimes the butter will melt too fast!

Sifting the powdered sugar and cocoa powder will remove any lumps for a smoother frosting! Be careful when adding the powdered sugar and cocoa powder–go slowly and don’t pour it in all at once. Mix to combine between pours!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter softened
4 cups powdered sugar sifted
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips melted and cooled

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes (aim for a creamy consistency).

Step 2: Gradually add 4 cups of sifted powdered sugar and 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the butter, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/3 cup of heavy cream, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Take your 1/2 cup of melted and cooled chocolate chips and fold into the frosting until consistent throughout.

Step 5: If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon more of heavy cream at a time. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

FAQs & Tips

Can I make chocolate fudge frosting in advance?

Yes! You can make chocolate frosting up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to go. You can also store frosting in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you choose to freeze it, allow the frosting to come to room temperature before use.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

If you choose to use salted butter in place of unsalted butter, then make sure to omit the ¼ tsp of salt so it’s not too salty!

Can I substitute granulated sugar for powdered sugar?

No, granulated sugar creates a grainer consistency and your frosting will look a little bumpy!

Add a splash of coffee!

If you want frosting with a stronger, more intense flavor, then replace half of the cream with coffee (or espresso).

Serving Suggestions

When people think of frosting, they usually think about cupcakes or cakes, but if you want to try something new and expand your horizons, then go for it! What about creating your own variation of whoopie pies using chocolate fudge frosting between two chocolate snickerdoodle cookies?

Growing up, I was obsessed with Cosmic Brownies. As an adult, why not try making them yourself? Once you bake some chocolate brownies, let cool before decorating with chocolate fudge frosting and sprinkles!

If you’re in a hurry, why not pick up a box mix of Funfetti cake from your nearest grocery store and frost with homemade frosting–it’ll be sure to take the cake to the next level.