The secret to this deeply chocolatey frosting is boiling the cocoa base on the stovetop before beating in the sugar. It creates a glossy, rich foundation that cools into a thick and spreadable topping. You'll love how beautifully it sets up on a classic yellow layer cake or a fresh batch of cupcakes. It brings a nostalgic, homemade touch to your favorite baked goods, and it's surprisingly simple to pull together.
Prep
10 min
Cook
10 min
Total
1 hr 0 min
Servings
12
Course
Dessert
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
1 cup milk
½ cup butter, cut into pieces
¼ cup light corn syrup
¼ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 ½ to 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
1Combine the granulated sugar and cocoa powder in a 3-quart saucepan. Stir in the milk, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently so the cocoa doesn't scorch on the bottom. Boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and let it cool for 45 minutes.
2Beat the vanilla extract into the cooled chocolate mixture. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Notes
Yield: Makes enough to frost a 13x9-inch sheet cake or fill and frost an 8
or 9-inch two-layer round cake.
Storage: Keep leftover frosting tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Prep: If using chilled leftover frosting, let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften, then stir well before spreading.