Description
Easy cocoa buttercream frosting with a rich chocolate flavor and a smooth, fluffy texture, made with simple cocoa powder and no melted chocolate.
Ingredients
- 200 g (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 300 g (2 ½ cups) powdered sugar
- 45 g (½ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 70 ml (¼ cup + 2 tsp) heavy cream
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch fine salt
Instructions
- Beat the softened butter with an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed for about 3–5 minutes, until very smooth, creamy and slightly lighter in color. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually in 2–3 additions, mixing on low speed after each addition until incorporated. Adding it gradually makes it easier to mix evenly and prevents powdered sugar from flying out of the bowl.
- Add the cocoa powder and mix on low speed until completely incorporated. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to make sure there are no pockets of cocoa.
- Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla and salt and mix first on low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed.
- Beat the buttercream for another 2–3 minutes until smooth, fluffy and evenly chocolatey. Scrape down the bowl once during mixing if necessary.
- Adjust the consistency if needed. Add a little more heavy cream, 1 teaspoon at a time, for a softer frosting, or a little powdered sugar if you need a firmer consistency for piping.
- Finish on low speed for about 1 minute to help remove excess air bubbles and create a smoother cocoa buttercream.
Equipment
Buy Now → Notes
Storage: Store cocoa buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, then bring to room temperature and mix until creamy before using.
Tips:
- Use well-softened butter for a smooth and fluffy texture.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually to incorporate it evenly.
- Sift the cocoa powder if it has any lumps.
- Add the heavy cream gradually to adjust the consistency.
- Mix briefly on low speed at the end to reduce air bubbles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Cuisine: American