Silky Smooth Chocolate Frosting

Simple, easy, quick! This silky-smooth chocolate frosting is going to be your new go-to recipe.

With just a few simple ingredients, such as salted butter, confectioners’ sugar, dark chocolate, and heavy whipping cream, you can create a decadent and glossy frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or just to dip your favorite cookie into!

What should I pair this frosting with?

Peanut Butter Chocolate Swirl Cake with Peanut Butter Filling: This recipe SCREAMS decadence. There is no better combination than the classic chocolate and peanut butter twist. This fudgy cake has three beautifully swirled cake layers, with smooth, fluffy peanut butter filling between each layer. I topped it off with THIS  beautiful glossy chocolate ganache frosting.
Red Velvet Cupcakes: Swapping the classic cream cheese frosting that is typically paired with red velvet cupcakes with a decadent silky smooth chocolate frosting would be DELICIOUS!
Fudgy Coffee Cupcakes: These cupcakes will dazzle your favorite chocolate coffee lover, perfect for any excuse to bake – birthdays, Fridays, or just because!
Chocolate Carrot Layer Cake with Chocolate Cream Cheese Buttercream: this cake comes with a lovely cream cheese frosting recipe- BUT if you want to stick with a classic chocolate frosting, this recipe would be a perfect pairing!
Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cake Parfaits – No BAKE!: You could swap the strawberry mouse for this luscious chocolate frosting for a decadent chocolaty twist- or even add it as a layer in the parfait the options are endless! 

What Makes This Frosting Special?

This frosting is a chocolate lover’s dream! It’s rich, creamy, and ready in just 10 minutes. The combination of dark chocolate and a touch of vanilla creates a deep, luscious flavor that’s perfect for any dessert topper. Plus, it’s super easy to make, even if you’re short on time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes. OR LESS!
• Rich and Decadent: Made with dark chocolate and heavy cream.
• Versatile: Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and more.

• Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need:
• 226 grams (1 cup) salted butter, room temperature: This adds a rich and creamy and balanced base.
• 360 grams (3 cups) confectioners’ sugar: For that perfect sweetness and structure.
• 173 grams (6 ounces) dark chocolate chips or bar: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
• 120 grams (1/2 cup) heavy whipping cream: Helps create a smooth and glossy texture.
• 4 grams (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract: Adds a hint of flavor.
• 1.5 grams (1/2 teaspoon) kosher salt: Balances out the sweetness.
• Tools: Stand mixer with paddle attachment, microwave-safe bowl, spatula.

How to Make Silky Smooth Chocolate Frosting:

• Beat the Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 226 grams of butter and 360 grams of confectioners’ sugar at medium speed until combined and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Scrape down the bowl every minute or so.
• Melt the Chocolate: In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat 173 grams of dark chocolate chips and 120 grams of heavy whipping cream on high for 40 seconds. Stir until smooth. If needed, heat in 15-second intervals until fully melted and combined.
• Combine and Whip: With the mixer on medium speed, slowly add the warm chocolate mixture to the butter mixture, beating until fluffy and smooth. Add 4 grams of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until combined. The frosting will look glossy and smooth.
• Finish Up: Scrape down the mixer as needed to ensure everything is well combined.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Frosting:

• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• High-Quality Chocolate: Use good quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overheat the Cream: Be careful not to overheat the cream to avoid curdling.
• Mix Well: Make sure to scrape down the bowl regularly to avoid any lumps.

Storing and Freezing Instructions:

• Storing: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature before using, as it will be too firm right out of the fridge.
• Freezing: You can freeze this frosting for up to 3 months. Place it in an airtight container and cover with plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.