Fudgy Chocolate Frosting (Made in One Bowl)
A quick and easy chocolate buttercream made in one bowl! Rich cocoa flavor, creamy texture, and perfect for frosting cakes, cupcakes, or brownies.
Servings: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2/3 cup natural cocoa powder sifted
- 2 ½ cup powdered sugar sifted
- 1/4 cup heavy cream at room temperature, plus more as needed
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and pale, about 2–3 minutes.1 cup unsalted butter
- Add the sifted cocoa powder and mix on low speed until well incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure it’s evenly blended.2/3 cup natural cocoa powder
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, alternating with a little heavy cream. Mix on low until incorporated, then increase to medium and beat until smooth and fluffy.2 ½ cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Beat in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix for 1–2 more minutes. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar.2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- For a fluffier texture, whip on high speed for another 2–3 minutes. For a fudgier, denser feel, stop mixing once it’s fully combined and smooth.
Notes
Makes enough for:
• 12 cupcakes (generously)
• 1 layer cake (9x13 or two 8-inch layers)
💡 Pro Tips
• For extra richness, you can use dark cocoa powder or swap half the butter for brown butter.
• If frosting a warm cake, make sure the cake is fully cooled or chilled to avoid melting.
• Stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp and re-whip before using.
• 12 cupcakes (generously)
• 1 layer cake (9x13 or two 8-inch layers)
💡 Pro Tips
• For extra richness, you can use dark cocoa powder or swap half the butter for brown butter.
• If frosting a warm cake, make sure the cake is fully cooled or chilled to avoid melting.
• Stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp and re-whip before using.
Nutrition
Calories: 1050Calories | Carbohydrates: 112g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 71g | Saturated Fat: 45g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 185mg | Sodium: 214mg | Potassium: 333mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 99g | Vitamin A: 2182IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 3mg