Skip the store-bought frosting in favor of this easy recipe for the best Chocolate Buttercream Frosting that takes just 5 minutes to make.
I have a confession to make. Chocolate buttercream frosting has always been an item on my grocery list rather than a recipe in my baking repertoire.
Who has the time to make buttercream frosting when it takes all of 2 seconds to toss it into your shopping cart and call it a day? But after a reader emailed me asking for a fool-proof chocolate buttercream frosting recipe (to follow up on the vanilla variety), I knew it was time to wave goodbye to the store-bought stuff and finally go the DIY route.
Little did I know, 5 minutes into my recipe creation process I’d be licking a spatula slathered in the richest, creamiest, most chocolatey buttercream frosting to ever cross my lips. I repeat, 5 minutes.
No fancy preservatives. No seven-syllable ingredients. Simply butter, cocoa powder, sugar, milk, vanilla, and my secret ingredient, a pinch of salt. The salt helps balance out the sweetness and round out the flavors. Toss all of the ingredients into a stand mixer, and you too will be a confectionery convert.
A few tips for whipping up homemade chocolate buttercream frosting:
- Use good quality cocoa powder. The better the quality, the better the taste of your frosting.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for all my fellow chocoholics out there.
- Use the beater blade with your stand mixer (rather than the whisk). It’ll result in creamy frosting that lightens in color the longer it’s mixed.
- This stuff pipes like a breeze. So get your fancy pants on and check out my simple trick for piping two-tone swirled frosting.
One more trick of the food styling trade? Grab a small spoon and use the back of it to make luscious, deep swirls and create the perfect peaks and valleys for a shower of sprinkles in every color.
Ready to see this buttercream in action? Tune in to the video below then get ready to buttercream all of your favorite baked goods!
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Ingredients
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until it is smooth, about 1 minute.
- Add the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder to the bowl and beat until combined. With the stand mixer running on low speed, slowly stream in the milk and vanilla extract then add the salt and continue beating until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed, about 2 minutes.
- Increase the speed to high and beat the frosting for an additional 2 minutes. Use the frosting immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge. (If you refrigerate the frosting, you may want to re-blend it for a few seconds in the stand mixer before using it.)
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Recipe by Kelly Senyei of Just a Taste. Please do not reprint this recipe without my permission. If you'd like to feature this recipe on your site, please rewrite the method of preparation and link to this post as the original source.
Super quick, easy-peasy, and tasty! FYI, I used Bensdorp dark Dutch process cocoa, and it tempered the sweetness down significantly. This recipe makes enough for a simply frosted two-layer 8 or 9-inch cake, or a single layer 8 or 9-inch cake with scalloped bottom edge and major frosting poufs on top. Wish I could send y’all a photo!
AMAZING! I’m so glad you enjoyed the frosting!
I made your chocolate frosting last night and absolutely love it! I’ve made other frostings over the years, but I felt like I wasn’t successful with them. Your recipe is right on the mark!
Absolutely amazing! Super quick and delicious. I will admit it’s a tad sweeter than I assumed but hey, isn’t that what it’s all about? Perhaps I’ll use a dark cacao powder next time and see how it goes, just for fun. Thanks!
very good, but it turned out a bit more liquidy than i expected. other than that it was really delicious!
Hi Grace – I’m not sure what could have happened with your frosting. You can add additional powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
I had my doubts… would it really be that good. OMG. It Is sooo good! I’m saving this and it’s going to be my new go-to chocolate frosting from now on!
YESSSS! SO happy you enjoyed the recipe, Lynn!
My kitchen aid is in storage can I use a hand mixer for this?
Hey Athena! Absolutely. That will work great. Enjoy!
Made the frosting exactly as written. Perfection! Will not ever buy chocolate frosting in a can again. I only had Special Dark Cocoa powder. It was heavenly! This is my go-to chocolate frosting. Now to find the Vanilla Buttercream and I’ll be all set! Thank you so much for a perfect recipe!
You are so welcome, Elena! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe! I have a recipe for Easy Buttercream Frosting: https://www.justataste.com/video-easy-buttercream-frosting-recipe/ and if you want a rich vanilla flavor, I recommend using the buttercream recipe from my Vanilla Bean Cupcakes: https://www.justataste.com/vanilla-bean-cupcakes-buttercream-frosting-recipe/ :)
This frosting is my family’s favorite. My grands ask for it all the time
Love reading this, Ann!
So easy and delicious. I frosted a 9 x 11 inch cake.
The recipe makes more than enough.
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Carol!
Will be making this tomorrow for a 6″ 2-layer cake. Unless I’m missing it, the recipe doesn’t say what size cake the 1x recipe will frost & I don’t want to make the 2x recipe and have tons left over as I’m a choc addict & can’t have leftover icing in house. Freezing it doesn’t help an addict btw! lol. nothing, not even freezing, stops the likes of us!
Haha! I totally understand! This recipe yields 2 cups of frosting or about enough to frost 1 1/2 – 2 dozen cupcakes or a 9 x 13 sheet cake. Hope that helps! :)
Easy, fast to make, and super good taste, my new favorite chocolate frosting!!
Hi Kelly, I’m glad I came across your Buttercream Frosting recipe. I’ve actually been using this recipe since my mom gave it to me about 50 years ago. Of course we always used skim milk because that is the milk we drink. The frosting is always fluffy and delicious yet a little sweet. When I read your version I noticed you add salt. I’ve never thought to do that. I gave it a try, DELICIOUS. It helps cut down on the sweetness which means I can eat more, lol. Thank you very much for sharing this recipe. I look forward to trying more of your recipes.
PS – I would have posted a picture of my cake but it got eaten up. Barely any crumbs left. That’s a good thing!
Love reading this, Sue! I’m thrilled you loved the addition of salt :) Welcome to Just a Taste!
Not ashamed to say, best frosting I ever made. Even my husband was complementary!
Woohoo! So happy to read this, Dana!
Hello,
While I have only made vanilla buttercream frosting perhaps 12 times (having only recently had enough courage to try…), I decided to try chocolate buttercream frosting using your recipe.
I must say the recipe is absolutely grand and sooo easy to follow and prepare. I will continue to use this recipe in the years to come. Thank you so much for sharing your baking expertise.
Sincerely,
Cathy Traynor
Bass Lake outside Vestaburg, Michigan
You are so welcome, Cathy! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Very quick easy and smooth frosting. Very tasty
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Kellie!
I must confess – I came online to see if my “invention” was a bona fide recipe. Sometimes, I just want a little something sweet, so I put a heaping tablespoon confec. sugar, a heaping tablespoon cocoa powder, and a dab of butter (TB?) and a little salt in a cup, microwave until the butter’s melted, stir well, and then drizzle in a couple tablespoons of half and half. What a nice little treat! Sometimes, I nibble with a spoon, sometimes I dip ruffles potato chips or pretzels. Who knew that this was actually icing!
My invention is more chocolatey and less sugary than this, but it is delicious. I left some in the cup overnight to see what it would be like when it cooled, and it is fabulous. So, try upping the cocoa powder for more of a dark chocolate flavor. I’m going to ice my next batch of brownies with my invention. It cools down with a nice shine.
Since “my” version is hot, it won’t swirl like yours does, but it is all of the same family of deliciousness. I’m also going to try adding orange extract – simple to make by just adding pared orange peel to a little vodka and let it sit for one hour or forever. I never throw away a citrus peel, I always make extracts. Thanks for this recipe!
My go-to chocolate frosting recipe! It never fails! I always get compliments when I make this
Woohoo! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
Purrr…fect! I didn’t have a paddle, but beaters worked well. I had to use margarine & it still turned out great. Not too sweet, which is perfect, too.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Louise!
I’m an experienced cook. I wasn’t familiar with beating the butter and sugar/cocoa mixture first before streaming in the milk but thought I would give it a try. I ended up with lumpy frosting, had to toss it in the trash and go search for my old tried and true recipe. What a waste of ingredients.
I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy the recipe. Did you beat it for the time specified?
So delicious ! My kids wanted chocolate icing for cupcakes and I didn’t have much time. I even halved the recipe bc I didn’t need much. And it turned out SO DELICIOUS. i love that it’s not a super sweet flavor- great balance of chocolate and sweetness. And the salt is the perfect touch, makes the flavors pop! So good! The kids and husband also loved it. We all kept saying “oh my it’s so good”
LOVE reading this, Ashley! I’m so thrilled your family enjoyed the frosting!
Fabulous. Took me so little time and came out wonderfully! Love it.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Liz!
Such a creamy and yummy frosting!!
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Sarah!
What if I don’t have a stand mixer but I have a hand mixer will it still be the same?
Hi Liz! A hand mixer works but it may not be as smooth. :)
Make this frosting quite often. It is very simple and tasty. Nothing like homemade frosting. Soooo good. The trick is to be sure you beat it at high speed to get the desired fluff.
I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Stephanie!
Should we refrigerate the cake once the icing is on or is the icing okay at room temperature?
Hi Kim! A decorated cake with buttercream frosting can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if it’s hot or humid where you live, store the cake in the fridge. :)
Kelly,
Thank you for the great frosting recipe…can I use heavy whipping cream instead of whole milk?
Absolutely, Elisa! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thicker. :)
What if I don’t have a mixer. All I have is a whisk?
Hi Dawn! You can use a whisk but it may not be as smooth!
This is a great, easy recipe! However, there is far too much salt for my taste. I know some like that salty/sweet taste but I taste so much of the salt. That being said, it’s still delicious and that’s not going to stop me from devouring it! I’ll just cut back on the salt next time. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for your note, Meghan! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe (even if it was too salty for you). :)
Delicious and simple to make. I will never buy store-made frosting again.
Woohoo! I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Linda!
My husband asked me what do ya want me to make you for your birthday. I said Chocolate cake and I have the perfect frosting. And it is yours.
Love this, Karie! Happy birthday!
Creamy and delicious! This is a keeper!
Yay! I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Jewel!
Best chocolate buttercream I have ever made in my 70+ years! It is perfect with the crazy cake, and I did add 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee to the dry ingredients of the cake.
WOWZA! I’m SO thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Cynthia!
Thank you for an excellent, fast recipe that uses standard pantry staples. I just got my frosting groove back.
P.s.the spoon swirls were a fabulous idea.
You are so welcome, Patty! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe and tips for decorating! :)
Is this a good one for piping?
Absolutely, Calli! It pipes really well :)
This icing was very easy to make and it was delish!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Trudy!
We enjoyed this frosting. I did not add salt as suggested in the recipe because I used salted butter. A double batch covered a tiered cake. Thank you for sharing this recipe!
You are so welcome, Amanda! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Excellent!! I doubled it and it was perfect.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Connie!
Can i use 2% milk instead of whole?
Absolutely, Beth! It just might be slightly less creamy.
Fabulous and unbelievably easy!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, D!
Made this for the first time today. Wasnt sure if it was going to work from the way it looked at the beginning but it came together beautifully! So easy to make. And very tasty.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Melissa!
Delicious and easy to make even with my immersion hand blender with the whip attachment. Thank you!
You are so welcome, Ruby! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
I just made this recipe and it’s exactly what I’ve been looking for. Didn’t change a thing… great taste and great consistency. Used it on top of two 8 inch cakes. Thanks for posting this!
You are so welcome, Gail! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
These are the same ingredients I’ve always used but wanted to check your portions against mine and I like your consistency better. I’ve always gotten rave reviews for my cupcakes with the
Is icing so definitely worth a few minutes longer.
Thank you! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Janice!
I made this recipe, and we loved it my grandboys said it tasted like a soft chocolate bar. It was very easy to make as well, it took me more than 5 minutes to make only because I went back and add more sugar.
I’m so glad you and your grandsons enjoyed the recipe, Cicely!
This does not take 5 minutes. More like 15. It’s okay. Wouldn’t do it again.
Sorry you didn’t enjoy the recipe, Felicia.
Excellent
Loved this recipe! First time making it and it came out perfect!
Woohoo! I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Abi!
I give this 5 stars because its the easiest icing Ive ever made.I came out silky smooth and delish.Highly recomend this recipe.I am going to use it with my Christmas choc cake.Thanks so much.
You are so welcome, Janet! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Does this recipe make enough frosting for a 2 layer cake?
Hi Jeanne! It depends on how thick you like your frosting, but I always recommend doubling this recipe as I’d rather you have ample frosting than not enough. :)
tastes so good
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Alex!
Excellent! I used 18% because it’s what I had … yum! Definitely use again!
Excellent! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Linda!
Just Perfect!!!! Saving this recipe!!
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Michelle!
thank you love it
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Fran!
Wow…This is going to be my goto Chocolate buttercream recipe from now on. It’s chocolaty, creamy, smooth, luscious. Spectacular! I sifted my powdered sugar and cocoa to ensure there were no lumps. At first when I mixed these with the creamed butter, I was skeptical it would come together when the milk and vanilla were added. But after leaving the mixer on for 2-3 min, it became so super smooth. I love this recipe. It was so easy! Thank you so much.
You are so welcome, Ed! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
This recipe is amazing! I tweaked it just a little by adding a splash of milk and a lil bit extra powder sugar, and it tasted exactly like Hershey milk chocolate!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, April!
Easy and delicious!
Easy to make, rich, and delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Shirlee!
It was delicious and easy to make. My 8year old had so much fun making her first -ever frosting We will do it again
It was delicious and easy to make. My 8year old had so much fun making her first -ever frosting
Love reading this, Maria!
It definitely is better than store bought! However, how do you measure .67 of a cup?
Hi Fran! So sorry for the confusion, .67 cup is equal to 2/3 cup.
Can almond milk or other non dairy be used to replace whole milk?
That should work, Jacky! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thinner.
The icing has a great taste to it, but it’s runny, I can’t fluff it even with added sugar. I’m tossing it inthe fridge with a lid, maybe that’ll help it with the fluffing, I’m an amateur chef, self learning despite cooking for a few years now.
Is it very hot or humid where you live? When the temperature is hot and humid, it gives your buttercream frosting a higher chance to become runny. Popping it into the fridge will help stiffen it up :)
Delicious and very easy. My go to from now on.
Perfect for my Matilda cupcakes. The guys at work will love them.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Kay!
Excellent frosting for brownies. Topped with chopped walnuts and vanilla ice cream. Easy to make. Ingredients are staples in my kitchen. Will keep as a frosting go to recipe.
YUM! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
The very best chocolate frosting I’ve ever made. Actually ever had. I’m so glad I doubled the recipe. We heated some in a ramekin in the microwave. Oh my goodness.. it made the best hot fudge ever. All in all I absolutely LOVE this.
Woohoo! I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Carole!
Just awesome, perfect for brownies!
Yessss! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Kathy!
Best chocolate frosting……EVER
I’m thrilled you enjoyed it, Laurel!
Tasty and easy recipe. I was in a rush got it done quickly without problem. I didn’t have whole milk or vanilla but I substituted 2 percent and vanilla syrup. It still worked. I just added a little extra powdered sugar to th8cken it a bit more.
Wonderful recipe. I used heavy cream.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Mary Ann!
So easy to make and it was smooth & creamy !
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Kim!
Very easy. But even though i followed instructions to a T, it was a bit runny.
Hi Maya! I’m not sure what could have happened with your frosting. You can add additional powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. :)
This is one of the best chocolate frosting l have ever tasted. My family loved it, only needed half for the cake l made,placed the rest in the fridge in a sealed container,took it out a week later, brought to room temperature mixed witha spoon and spread it on another cake it was delicious, thoroughly recommend.
Amazing! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Lyn!
This is a fabulous frosting. And so easy and quick. Very similar to how I was taught to make frosting from my grandma many years ago. Long before you could buy canned frosting. Which tasted like cardboard by the way.
Just a suggestion to enhance the chocolate flavor sub in a little bit of cold coffee for part of the milk. It will take the flavor over the top!!!!!
LOVE that idea! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
This is great, thanks!
You are so welcome! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Hi Kelly,
Just made a chocolate cake with your 5 min frosting and it turned out
Lovely, delicious taste. I love it
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Colleen!
Excellent! Quick and easy!
I cant afford a stand mixer
A hand mixer works but it may not be as smooth. :)
It will if you sift the cocoa and powder sugar
Tasted fantastic. Just not sure what happened with the amount of milk, though — I had to add much more than listed here. But overall, a great recipe and I will be using it in the future.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Alexandra!
I was able to frost my husband’s birthday cake between conference calls! Quick, easy and delicious, it will be a great dessert for the big day.
Thank you, Kelly
So glad you enjoyed the recipe, Janet!
super easy and excellent flavor! works perfect on my “scratch” chocolate cake!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Carin!
I didn’t have a paddle beater, so just used by whisk style beater. The buttercream icing is delicious. Very rich and smooth.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Shelly!
Delish!!!!!! Will be my forever go to !
YESSSSS! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Isabelle!
So easy and so yummy!!! Had all the ingredients in my pantry and refrigerator. Perfect icing for my homemade brownies!!!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Lindsay!
Delicious and I also had all the ingredients on hand. I did find that this was way too much for a single layer layer cake that is iced in the pan. I checked online and found extra icing can be refrigerated for up to 14 days and frozen for up to 6 months.
I’m glad you enjoyed the recipe, Carol!
So easy and delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Ginny!
Thank you, quick and easy and tastes delicious, Perfect!
You are so welcome, Sharon! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
My favourite new chocolate frosting recipe. Thank you so much
So glad you enjoyed it, Simone!
It was good but sweet
Great recipe! Saved me since I didn’t have a cup of butter every other recipe required. Thank you.
You are so welcome, Lisanne! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Hi Kelly, your recipe sounds amazing! Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted, and skip the added salt?
Sure!
So easy and delicious
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Diedra!
I’ve used this recipe several times and each time I’m so delighted at how easy and Delicious it is !!!!
The only thing I change is I use whipping cream instead of whole milk.
Love, Love, Love this recipe
Love reading this, Margaret! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
Easy frosting to make! I doubled the recipe, used coffee in place of half of the milk and sifted the cocoa powder with the powdered sugar. Delicious l!!
That sounds amazing, Joy! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Best frosting ever! I made it with cow milk and then again with full-fat oat milk, and King Arthur Burgundy cocoa powder. So very easy to make and spreads like a dream. I would make 2x for a double layer cake. 1x is definitely enough to cover it, but we want it thick! Thank you!
You are so welcome, Lynn! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
Can I use 1% or 2% milk instead of the whole milk ? Will it have the same consistency?
Hi Mrs. Lemak! Either of those will work however, the consistency might be slightly different than if you were to use whole milk.
This is yummy. And very easy to make. I used 2% milk and 2 cups of icing sugar. Turned out nice and light and creamy.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Janet!
This frosting is the best! I had a little left over and kept it in the fridge. My husband kept putting it on graham crackers for a snack. I guess he liked it too!
Woohoo! I’m thrilled you (and your husband!) enjoyed the recipe, Dianne.
Just made this frosting for my daughter’s cake. Had to taste it and it is delicious! Love that it’s not too sweet and you can really taste the cocoa. It’s a keeper!!
Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Corrine!
Great rich dark chocolate taste!
Thanks for the recipe.
You are so welcome, Leigh! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Wow! Amazing! Thanks for the recipe and the tip about the salt!
You are so welcome, Lynn! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the buttercream frosting!
Can this be made in advance? How many days would it be good?
Hi Paula! It can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temp and mix with a spoon or electric mixer.
Great recipe, easy and delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Joanne!
it took me a sec to get it but in the end it was great!
I’m so happy to read this!
I made this frosting today for my dad’s birthday cake. It is delicious, but I recommend making a double batch, as one batch was not enough to cover the cake. It is probably the best chocolate buttercream I’ve made, though!
Woohoo! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Caroline!
Just wanted to send you a quick note to let you know that I just made your chocolate frosting for a special occasion. I have baked many cakes in my life (almost 80 years old) but I truly think this is the best chocolate frosting I have ever made. It was easy and the consistency made it so easy to frost my cake. I did make it with my hand mixer following the exact directions and it turned out so good that I kept heaping more on my cake because I knew I would lick the bowl clean otherwise. Thank you so much for sharing.
Love, love, LOVE reading this, Mariane! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
One the cake is frosted how long can it sit at room temp? Also if you put in the fridge does it crust?
Hi Jacquelyn! A decorated cake with buttercream frosting can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if it’s hot or humid where you live, store the cake in the fridge. :)
Just made this for my son’s birthday cake and they were eating it out of the bowl before I could get it on the cake! They all loved it. Good thing I doubled the batch. How long can it keep in the refrigerator?
Hi Terry! It can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temp and mix with a spoon or electric mixer.
Quick, easy, and delish! Instead of using milk, I actually used coffee left over from the morning to give it a stronger flavor. Great recipe! (Also, the icing dries pretty quickly which was helpful for stacking)
WOW! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Tiffany!
Hi Kelly, is this icing appropriate for frosting cupcakes too?
Absolutely, Charlene! This recipe yields about enough frosting for 1 1/2 – 2 dozen cupcakes.
Very, very thick…might need another drizzle of milk….It would be more spreadable….Flavor was outstanding… I give it 4 stars
Hi Lisa – Did you beat it for the time specified in the recipe?
Just used this recipe, and it came out perfectly! Its a very delicious frosting to say the least!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Shamil!
I used ingredients I had & it came out perfectly! Great frosting & easy
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Kathryn!
Can you use 2% milk instead of whole milk?
Absolutely, Kiley! It just might be slightly less creamy.
The best!!! Easy , quick and delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Patrish!
Hi, would I be able to use sweetened cocoa powder in this recipe? Also, would it be ok to sub the milk for half and half or whipping cream to make it even creamier?
Thank you
Hi Alie! Using sweetened cocoa powder means you’d want to cut down on the other sugar. You can try using half-and-half but I’m not sure what the consistency of the frosting would be and how much you’d need.
Perfect!!! My go to frosting forever!!!Thank you for sharing!!! DELICIOUS!!!
You are so welcome, Maxine! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
PERFECT!!!!!
Is it enough to ice a 2 tiered, 8 inch round cake including the middle?
I’d recommend doubling the recipe as I’d rather you have ample frosting than not enough. :)
Could I substitute 2% milk here?
Absolutely! It just might be slightly less creamy.
This frosting is fantastic! My cake was smaller than intended, so now I have an excuse to do more baking to use the remaining frosting – if it survives my “drive-by” spoonful sampling ;)
FWIW I had only salted butter, so just skipped adding the 1/4 tsp salt.
Love this recipe, Kelly.
YESSSS! I’m so happy to read you enjoyed the recipe, Jennie!
Kelly, for those of us without a stand mixer, would an electric hand mixer do the job for this frosting? I so want to make it for hubby’s B-Day cake
Absolutely, Jenni! You’ll just need to scrape down the sides of the bowl more frequently.
Smoth Easy to make, taste great
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Aaron!
Easy to make and so delicious. I am saving this recipe. Now I need a buttercream recipe??
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Julia! Here’s the link to my Easy Buttercream Frosting recipe: https://www.justataste.com/video-easy-buttercream-frosting-recipe/
So good. I should have taken the suggestion to double it since we are all chocolate lovers. Fast and easy too.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Sara!
Omg!!! This recipe is amazing. Easy to make with simple ingredients in 5 minutes! Tastes so good when done! Final product looks a little bit grainy, but I can assure you that the texture is perfectly smooth. I was skeptical while making it, because the cocoa powder and the butter and the sugar was all clumped together, and looked like it would never turn into frosting. But add the milk, and voila! Perfect, smooth, creamy, chocolatey frosting. 5 stars!!
Yessss! I’m so glad you enjoyed the buttercream frosting!
Most Excellent! Best Chocolate Frosting I Have Ever Made!!! Sticking To This Recipe From Now On!
Woohoo! Love reading this, Tammy!
Very easy to make. I did cut back on the sugar by about 30% and added a little cream cheese, which I think gives it a nice tang. Delicious!
It was easy to make and delicious
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Donna!
it is not too sweet and it’s not too salty and it goes well with the chocolate cake that I made and it makes it fudgier and delicious. Also, I and my family loved it.
I’m so happy to read this, Keri!
I forgot to rate the recipe ! 5 star all the way
Thanks so much, Kerry!
I’m an older single man and have to cook for myself , and your frosting recipe is way to easy , yet it taste just like my moms did when I was a youngster . Thanks for sharing
You are so welcome, Kerry! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Delicious and easy to make! I always double the recipe and freeze whats left over. Thank you for sharing. Delicious!!!
You are so welcome, Maxine! I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
Hi, do you have the measurements in metric? I don’t use cup measurements for a long time. It’s more precise to use a scale.
Hi Ingrid! I don’t provide metric conversions for my recipes, as I cannot guarantee they would be 100% accurate without being tested. However, you are welcome to use an online converter. :)
I have never commented on a recipe post before, though I use them frequently. This is so delicious. I had to take the time to thank you for sharing this recipe. I made it for my birthday cake with my children. We added a pinch of cinnamon as well to give it a Mexican hot chocolate flavor. Sheer perfection.
YUM! Thanks for taking the time to comment, Cas! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe :)
This tastes exactly like the homemade icing my momma made in a cast iron skillet ❤️This was super easy & I used a hand held mixer & it did perfect. Thx!!
So happy to read this, Stephanie!
I’m in the UK so not as familiar with measuring in cups – is it 2 x 1/3 cups of sugar or 2 cups plus 1/3 cup?
Thanks
Hi Angela! It’s 2 cups plus 1/3 cup. :)
This frosting is so creamy and delicious. And it was super easy to make!
I used plant-based milk (Almond milk) and plant-based butter, to make this a vegan frosting, and it was great. This recipe is a keeper, I’ll use it again and again. Thank you!
Love reading this, Joyce! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Why can’t I pin this to Pinterest? I want to use it again! Thank you.
Hi Julie! If you hover your cursor over the top left corner of the image a red Pinterest button should appear. Please email me if you still have questions: kelly@justataste.com :)
This recipe was delicious. I did add another tablespoon of butter. The frosting is not overly sweet and it’s lighter than most frostings. I got great reviews from my entire team at work. Will be my new secret recipe
.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Kathleen!
How would this frosting turn out using a standard hand mixer?
Hi Taylor! A hand mixer works but it may not be as smooth. :)
best i ever had quick and easy love it
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, William!
best i ever had
This is a fabulous recipe! Not only is it fast and easy. It makes the smoothest most creamy frosting I have ever had. Tastes great. Not overly sweet. My go to chocolate frosting from now on! Do you happen to have any more recipes like this for different flavors other than chocolate.
Thank you so much for sharing.
You are so welcome, Terry! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the buttercream frosting. I also have a recipe for Easy Buttercream Frosting: https://www.justataste.com/video-easy-buttercream-frosting-recipe/ and Vanilla Bean Buttercream Frosting: https://www.justataste.com/vanilla-bean-cupcakes-buttercream-frosting-recipe/ :)
This icing is so delicious and was so easy to make! Thank you! :)
You are so welcome, Maria! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
OMG it took literally 5min and OMG it was incredibly delicious and this is coming from someone who is not a frosting eater. This will be my go to recipe for now on, Yummmm!!!
Woohoo! This is what I love to read, Susan! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe :)
Pretty quick and pretty tasty!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Stephanie!
I am making a birthday cake and will use this recipe to cover a large cake. Because I am not going to have much time to ice it at the last minute, how long could I leave it without refrigerating it which would dry the chocolate sponge?
Hi Eileen! A decorated cake with buttercream frosting can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if it’s hot or humid where you live, store the cake in the fridge. :)
OMG!!! I have never had such fluffy frosting. And the chocolate flavor is spot on!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Julia!
Excellent basic butter cream, I put it on a gluten free chocolate cake and wow it finished off the desert very nicely. Everyone enjoyed even the dieting folks who sampled the cake & icing thought it was just sweet enough and a prefect topping.
I think the next time will add 1/4 tsp espresso powder to change it up kick up the chocolate flavour even more… this recipe is worth a try.
I love the idea of adding espresso powder, Lorraine! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Turned out great and so easy. Deep chocolate flavor, perfect. I would note that I made a layered cake and there was barely enough for it. Maybe I like more frosting than others do? LOL
I did do one thing that was not in the instructions, I sifted the sugar first so to make sure there were no lumps.
Amazing! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Jo!
Delicious and easy to make! I always double the recipe and freeze whats left over. Thank you for sharing. Delicious!!!
You are so welcome, Maxine! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe :)
Easy, Creamy and Chocolatey delicious The salt is perfect addition.
Easy, yummy and I didn’t have to buy any of the ingredients specially.
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Elizabeth!
Great flavor and used ingredients I always have on hand. Was a good consistency for piping on cupcakes.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Melanie!
Its quick to make. Rich, smooth and so tasty. I’ll make it again.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Elise!
The texture was perfect. The recipe is delicious, not to rich, but just right. I have used this recipe twice as written, I have also added to it as well. This time I increased the confectioners’ sugar to 3 cups, and then added 1/4 whipped cream cheese, 3 TBSP Kahula, 1/4 whole milk. It added a neat twist to the frosting. I will continue to use this frosting as my “go-to” chocolate frosting.
Amazing! I’m so thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Rhonda!
This recipe is the best! I made it for a 13×9 inch cake (single layer) and, when I was almost finished, it didn’t appear that it would be enough icing. At the risk of diluting the delicious rich chocolate taste, I added another 1/3 cup of confectioner’s sugar and, then, of course, had to dilute it with more milk – naturally. I was out of milk but did have heavy cream so I used the cream, one teaspoon at a time, until the frosting was of spreading consistency . . . what a taste! It is the best chocolate frosting ever – and no melting little chocolate pieces. I really like that this is all made of pure ingredients – the butter, milk, cream, chocolate, vanilla – all pure, with no added chemicals. This will be my go-to icing from now on! Thank you, Kelly!
This is what I love to read, Dianne! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
This turned out so good! I was a little worried that I did something wrong. I only have a hand mixer and I was having trouble getting the dry ingredients to incorporate with the butter. I couldn’t get it to really come together until I added the milk and vanilla. I made a huge mess and almost forgot the salt, but it came together in the end and my son really liked it.
Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Candace!
Easy and delicious helped bunch when going to the store is not an option, and it’s fun with the family.
I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Abraham!
Hie lm from Zimbabwe l have just made this frosting so creamy and delicious thank you
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Nompilo!
Can you say YUMMY, better than any chocolate frosting I have made
Amazing! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Jeanette!
I’ve made this recipe twice now and it came out wonderfully both times! I used a hand mixer both times with a whisk attachment, no problems, came out very creamy. Made it a couple years ago for a friend’s birthday cake (pre-pandemic) and she requested it again this year. Just barely had enough to frost a 2-layer cake, so next time will make more. Also, I LOVE how you, unlike so many food bloggers, take the time to answer every single comment! Love your blog!!
Thanks so much, Peg! I do my absolute best to respond to as many comments as possible! :)
Easy and delicious! This will be our new go-to chocolate frosting. We followed the recipe exactly and it’s perfect!
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Debbie!
Today I needed to take something sweet to my neighbours, it was a sad day for them & their three boys, they lost their pet dog Lady who had been a part of the family for a long time. I felt so bad I just had to do something. I made chocolate cupcakes and used your buttercream frosting to finish them. They were so delicious!!! Thank you for this.
I’m so sorry your neighbors lost their dog, Karen. It was so kind of you to bake cupcakes for them.
Delicious and quick. I needed to drizzle a little more milk in to thin it a little more for my liking. Thanks!
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, MaryEllen!
I found this recipe easy, and TASTY!!! I’ve tried my own icing before and it was a complete flop, but not this one, even though I forgot to sieve my icing and I used a whisk as I don’t have a fancy stand mixer. I tripled the recipe (thank you for those handy options!) as a love a cake smothered in tasty icing, but I went too far and have a bit left over. Does it freeze well? How long can I keep it for?
I did a search through the comments for an answer and just wanted say it’s lovely to see you’ve replied to so many!
Regards, Tammy
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Tammy! I’ve never tried freezing the frosting so I’m not sure what the texture would be like after defrosting/re-whipping it. However, it can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temp and mix with a spoon or electric mixer.
easy to make and quick! Tastes great.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Lisa!
delicious and creamy really helped the taste of the cake and you can dye it to
Easy and good
Seriously the best! So easy, quicky to make and truly delicious chocolate flavor! Will be my go to from now on! Yummm!
Absolutely delicious. Perfect! Wish I could ad a picture. I used the back of the spoon like you suggested. Great idea.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Marie!
YUMMY!!
I love this recipe. I recommend sifting the powdered sugar and cocoa, or the icing will be lumpy.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Meghan!
Sooo good!! Most recipes either end up tasting like a pure stick of butter or plain old powder sugar but not this one at all! Thanks!! :)
You are so welcome, Morgan! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe :)
thank you soo much.
can we use heavy cream instead of whole milk?
Sure! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thicker. :)
Well made. Be sure to use good quality cocoa powder. :-)
Could I use evaporated milk? I have an opened can I need to get rid of in the next day or 2. Also, if the frosting is a little grainy will extra whipping help with that?
Hi there! I haven’t tried this recipe with that substitution so I’m not certain. If it’s grainy, you can try whipping it more, but did you use confectioners’ sugar?
Delicious!! My go-to chocolate frosting for all cakes. My family is gluten free, dairy free and soy free and they love it but so does other friends and family members. In addition, it’s so easy to make and covers a two layer cake
I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Nikki!
This buttercream came through for me when I needed something last minute. At first I didn’t think it would make enough, but I followed your instructions and kept whipping it and it came out fluffy and the perfect amount. Thank you!
This is what I love to read, Cindi! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Very yummy and easy to make
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, CJ!
Loved this frosting so quick and easy to make – delicious too. Is it suitable for freezing? If not how long can I refrigerate it for? Thanks in advance
Hi Gerry! The buttercream frosting can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temp and mix with a spoon or electric mixer.
The cake turned out gorgeous but I halved the frosting recipe.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Vickie!
Will 2% milk work instead of whole milk?
Thanks
Hi Carol – Sure! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thinner.
Can I give this recipe to my church sisters including your name and website? I gave a sample of a whole wheat chocolate cake and used your frosting recipe. It was a delicious! Thank you.
Absolutely! Thanks so much for sharing the recipe! :)
Thank you!
Spectacular! Thank You!!
You are so welcome, Marilyn! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Just made this for the first time and it did not disappoint! So light and delicious and just the right sweetness. Before I added the milk and vanilla, I thought I had done something wrong because it looked almost dry. This will be my go to frosting. Thank you for a great recipe!
You are so welcome, Susan! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Although I’m an avid review reader, I don’t believe I’ve ever posted a recipe review until now. I’m not much on frosting, unless it’s the cream cheese variety. But my husband wanted a yellow cake with chocolate frosting, and although I cheated and used a mix for the cake, I definitely had to go with homemade frosting! Well, let me tell you, I FOUND THE RIGHT RECIPE! Not too sugary, and not like eating a stick of refrigerated butter (because who could really complain about the melted kind?!). It’s like my mom’s Christmas fudge, only better and beautifully spreadable. You’ve made a frosting and personal fan out of me. I can’t wait to make more of your delicious eats!
Love reading this, Roberta!
This was my very first time making a frosting from scratch and it was dee-licious. The cake was devoured by my family. Thank you so much for sharing.
You are so welcome, Kim! I’m thrilled your family enjoyed the recipe!
The best chocolate frosting! Super easy, creamy, chocolatey and DELICIOUS. Best of all, it doesn’t taste like sweetened butter. A winner for sure
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
This recipe was easy to make and turned out just the right consistency! It also tasted very good! I used Ghirardelli cocoa powder and it had a deep rich flavor!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Joseph!
This was a bust! I followed the directions exactly!!!!! I used my stand mixer. I still found tiny chunks of butter after beating it for ten min. I think I need to go back to hand mixer for frosting. This did not work for me.
Hi Kathleen – Was your butter at room temperature?
OMG this was amazing. It was super easy, and a big hit at my daughter’s birthday! I’m super picky about frosting, but this… yummm! It was rich and fudgy but still light somehow.. I ate way too many cupcakes lol. A keeper for sure!
Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Traci!
Perfect. That’s all I need to say.
And the trick with the spoon. Need I say more. Suddenly I am a professional
Woohoo! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Philip!
Took less than 5 minutes. I used half & half instead of the milk and added a bit more to keep the frosting soft. Great flavor and no melting chocolate.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Russ!
Love this recipe so much! It’s easy and fudgy!! You don’t need to change a thing!
Yay! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Reena!
Easy and delicious, just like I wanted.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the buttercream frosting, Patricia!
I don’t like the pre-made frosting tubs from the grocery store. To me they have a chemical, off taste and don’t taste at all like the real thing.
It’s hard to beat homemade! :)
Best and Easiest Chocolate Buttercream Frosting I’ve made. Great when you want something home made but still as quick and easy as throwing store bought into your trolley, if you include paying at checkout :) that is.
Love the tip “Grab a small spoon and use the back of it to make luscious, deep swirls and create the perfect peaks”
Thank you, with your help I created a true masterpiece.
You are so welcome, Susie! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe and the spoon trick!
This beautifully presented & written recipe looks perfect, just what I was looking for. But then I saw it was measured in inaccurate spoons and cups! There are official quantities for these : it’s annoying to have to work out how much is meant. Most of us in the UK don’t fill our cupboards with extraneous measuring cups & spoons when only one item is needed:a scale!
Thanks for great recipe
Hi Alice – Our recipes are written in the Imperial format, so feel free to use an online conversion program for metric. :)
I needed a quick buttercream frosting recipe for a 9×13 pan of brownies and this one was great! I didn’t have to melt any chocolate, I grated the butter to get it to room temperature fast, and it came together in hardly no time at all. It’s intensely “chocolaty”…I even did the spoon tip to make the swirls on top!! Pretty…….Thanks.
You are so welcome, Nancy! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Perfect. Quick and incredibly delicious. I used milk 1%, that’s all I had, and it still turned out really good. This frosting doesn’t taste like pure sugar or like a hunk of butter, like other homemades I’ve made.
YESSSS! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Carrie!
Today ,baked home made vanilla cup cakes for my daughters Birthday. Looked up chocolate icing recipes using yours. The icing is delicious and ready in minutes.
Friends and neighbors enjoyed them.
Thank you for posting.
You are so welcome, Debbie! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Second time making this recipe. It my new favorite and so easy and it doesn’t taste like 5lbs of butter like other recipes I have tried! Thank you!
You are so welcome, Mary! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
Can I use sour cream if I don’t have enough milk?
It’ll be super thick so you may need to thin it!
Best easiest ever great tasting recipe I have found for chocolate buttercream frosting. My family raves about it. Very fluffy and easy to spread. 5 ⭐️star for sure. Not too expensive and simple ingredients you normally have in your pantry.
I’m so thrilled to read this, Elaine!
This was so delicious, so creamy. Used it for a chocolate cake I baked for my wife’s birthday. I was hesitant to make the chocolate cake because the frosting recipe was so involved, requiring constant temperature monitoring. A little bit of googling later I landed here…your recipe was such a lifesaver! Incredibly simple but compromises nothing in taste and texture. Bookmarked and saved. Thank you and great work Kelly!
Woohoo! Love reading this, Ameeya! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe :)
Hello, How many cupcakes will this frost?
Hi there! This recipe yields 2 cups of frosting or about enough to frost 1 1/2 – 2 dozen cupcakes.
Loved it! I agree with them all. it is simple, great tasting, and extremely versatile with a little imagination. I made a vanilla bean cake with chocolate frosting. I had made a double batch just to make sure I had enough. It went on extremely smooth. I decided to decorate with a shell border and it held its shape just fine. The problem is, I can’t stay out of the leftover icing in the refrigerator. It goes great with a spoon too! Thanks again
You are so welcome, Jamie! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe! And I totally agree with you, it tastes great with just a spoon :)
This was so yummy that I’m going to look up the vanilla variety.
Yay! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Corinne! And here’s the link to my Easy Buttercream Frosting: https://www.justataste.com/video-easy-buttercream-frosting-recipe/
I couldn’t figure out why it was so runny, but it was really yummy!
Hi Izzy! I’m not sure what could have happened with your frosting. You can add additional powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. :)
Yummy, add a touch of crushed (crush to a fine powder) flavored coffee or espresso!
YUM! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Lynne!
E-A-S-Y!!! AND… Y-U-M-M-Y!!!
So glad you enjoyed the recipe, Judy!
This is such an amazing recipe! I did add more cocoa powder to have more of a dark chocolate feel & now is going to be my top go to recipe! So in love with the taste and texture. Crazy delicious!
Woohoo! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Extremely easy and quick, also delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Wes!
Easy to make & really yummy!
Was an amazing recipe
Amazing! Made it for my grandmas birthday and she loved it. Thanks for the recipe!!!
You are so welcome, Alayna! I’m thrilled your grandma enjoyed the recipe!
Delicious and easy to prepare! Best recipe i’ve ever made and ejoyed.
Thank you, looking forward to trying many more recipes.
Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed the buttercream frosting, Barb!
Easy and delicious
Really yummy. And easy to make which makes it all the better!
So glad you enjoyed the recipe, Sandra!
I used 1/2 of butter. A wonderful tasting recipe.
Loved this recipe! Easy and tastes wonderful!
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed it, Robin!
Let me say that I have been trying to find a recipe similar to the kind you find from a store bakery. I have a obsession with frosting. No more wasting my money on the store cupcakes from the bakery. This just checked all the boxes on my List!!! And super easy! And does not taste like I am eating a tub of butter! My husband said it’s a winner! Thank you so much!
Love, love, LOVE read this, Mary!
Simple but effective and delicious buttercream! I used Hershey’s special dark dutched chocolate powder. Came out fabulous
Creamy-check. Chocolatey-check. Simply a delicious frosting!
Way better than store bought and easy. Used my hand mixer cuz thats all I have and no problem. Just had to really soften butter and add cocoa in slowly because you can end up in a cocoa cloud if too fast. My husband wasn’t sure but he loves it too!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Mary Jane!
Can you either use heavy whipping cream or 2% milk in place of whole milk?
Hi Dottie – Sure! But you might need to adjust the quantity. :)
This is the recipe I have used for years. So reliable and so yummy. I will never use anything else!
Love reading this, Cynthia! I’m so thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe :)
Would this hold up as a crumb coat under fondant?
Hi Hayley! I’ve never tried this recipe as a base under fondant so I’m not entirely sure. I THINK it would work, but let me know if you give it a shot!
Please forgive me if this was answered. I may have missed this. Does this recipe frost a TWO layer 9-inch cake? Or would I need to double this? Thank you. I make a mean chocolate cake, but never ever get the icing right.
Hi Nancy – I’d recommend doubling the recipe as I’d rather you have ample frosting than not enough. :)
It was delicious. Easy to make will never buy chocolate frosting again.
Woohoo! I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Beverly!
Easy to make and great chocolate flavor. I made for a chocolate cake. Thanks
You are so welcome! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Awesome taste. I loved it. Used this in my first homemade cookie cake and it was a hit!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Jessica! A cookie cake sounds delicious!
I used a tad too much milk. But the recipe is so dreamy I absolutely love it. Not too rich as some buttercream recipes are. Delicious ♀️
Delish!! I didn’t have quite enough powdered sugar but that’s ok… tasted a like more chocolaty
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Sue!
Just made this frosting; seems to be great. Used to frost a mini, 4 layer-chocolate chip cookie cake. Quick question, do you need to refrigerate after frosting? I looked through comments and do not see this question. Please let me know as soon as you can. Thank you.
Hi Loretta! A decorated cake with buttercream frosting can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if it’s hot or humid where you live, store the cake in the fridge. :)
This chocolate icing was awesome!! Will definitely make again!!
I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe, Donna!
Delicious! Easy !
Hubby’s favorite is a layered yellow cake with chocolate frosting! Found a great frosting! Thank you!
Amazing recipe! My only problem was I didn’t have enough cocoa powder, but it still turned out great! I highly recommend. Very tasty. I will definitely will make this again!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Very easy and very tasty. I thought the Amish fudge frosting I made was good but this far exceeds it.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Linda!
I just made this frosting to top a birthday cake yesterday, it was delicious. I did find the frosting to be a little too sweet for my taste, but I generally like things only lightly sweetened so my palette definitely doesn’t speak for the masses.
If I cut the sugar down to 1 and 3/4 cups, do you think I’d need to alter the measurements of any of the other ingredients?
Hi G! I haven’t tried it with that amount of sugar so I’m not sure what the consistency would be. You may need to use slightly less liquid.
Easy to make, smooth and delicious. Great match for my favorite vanilla cake recipe and can’t wait to try it with others.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Jeanne!
If you wanted a mocha flavor, would you just add some coffee powder to it?
I’ve never tried this recipe with coffee powder, but I know others have and had total success :) Let me know if you give it a shot, Sharon!
Great recipe, came out perfect. It is a 5- minute recipe. Made for my brother’s Birthday. Will use it from now on.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Alice!
This is the first time I’ve made homemade frosting ever and I am so pleased at how easy it was to make and how delicious it turned out. I forgot to use salt so I will definitely use it next time. One question—there were a few little spots of butter that I assume I didn’t combine enough. Any suggestions for next time?
Hi Amy – It could be that the buttercream just wasn’t beaten for long enough. Also, always use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl so that all the ingredients are incorporated and no lumps of butter or sugar are left in the bowl when mixing. :)
Amazing recipe. Simple to make and delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Claire!
Easy and very chocolate.
Please add weights, as most baker’s use weights… I will try this… Thanks
We’re working on adding metric conversions to our recipes. Stay tuned!
I am going to substitute heavy cream for the milk. (No milk available except for powdered). Might have to titrate it, but it should work. Your thoughts? Thanks ⚡
That works! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thicker. :)
Simply great took no time to ice a last minute cake for a friends birthday. She loved it!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Ken!
Great
This was amazing. The icing/frosting was not overly sweet like some others are. It complimented my cake beautifully.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Karen!
Hello,
How much frosting does this make? Answer ASAP please as I need this for a recipe on saturday 2/20
thanks :)
Hi Elle! This recipe yields 2 cups of frosting or about enough to frost 1 1/2 – 2 dozen cupcakes or a 9 x 13 sheet cake.
Made these pancakes yesterday, so fluffy and delicious. I served them with bacon, sausages, eggs and maple syrup. WOW!! What a treat.
So glad you enjoyed the recipe, Joy!
that is delicious ,i used coconut milk ,i may add Carmel to it next time ,its so creamy ,ill never buy store bought again thank you
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Dawn!
We LOVE this frosting! I substituted vegan salt-free butter for the butter and toasted coconut almond mild for the milk and it still was the best tasting and nicest consistency chocolate frosting ever. The vegan butter was a little tricky because it softens differently that regular, so I had to warm up a small amount of the almond milk and add it with the step where you combine the butter and powdered sugar. Otherwise, followed the recipe as is. Thanks! It will be my go-to!
Awesome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Rosalyn!
Absolutely the best cake! I added chocolate chips to batter. This was the first time to make my own frosting and I couldn’t believe how easy and so good….thanks
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Carmella!
This is so rich and delicious! Thank you!
You are so welcome, Kerri! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
When I first started mixing the powdered sugar and cocoa into the butter, I didn’t think this was going to turn out, then I started streaming in the milk and it all came together beautifully. Other reviewers described it as silky. That’s the perfect word for it. Delicious and perfect come to mind too. It’s not overly sweet either. Thank you.
YESSSS! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Robby!
I’m wondering about the butter. I only buy salted so should I just omit the added salt?
Yes! :)
This is my GO TO for chocolate buttercream when I want to ice a cake or cupcakes. Thank he salt balances out the perfect sweetness. Making it today for my daughter’s bday cake. Thank you!
I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Melanie!
Great simple recipe. Frosting is delicious.
Delicious icing! This will be my go to from now on. Thanks!
Woohoo! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Cathy!
Can you use 2% milk rather than whole milk?
Hi Irma – Sure! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s slightly thinner. :)
I dont have confectioners sugar. Can I substitute with regular granulated white? If so, how much?
Hi Chris – You’ll definitely want to use confectioners’ sugar for this recipe! :)
This is the most highly requested icing for my cake customers. I now make at least 5 batches per week! Thank you so much for sharing it. My customers thank you too
I’m so thrilled to read this, Ja’Toya!
I have made this recipe twice now … for both 9f my son’s birthday cakes and it came out perfectly both times! I increased everything by 1.5 … we like lots of icing on our cakes. This is definitely my go- to chocolate buttercream recipe!
I’m so thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Stephanie!
Hi – I havent’ made this yet – what if I only have a regular blender (or food processor?) and no stand mixer? Thanks!
Hi Jean – A hand mixer works but it may not be as smooth. :)
So delicious!! I did not have whole milk on hand so substituted heavy whipping cream. The frosting was so silky. I ate a spoonful before turning to my cupcakes!
Woohoo! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Michelle!
I tried this today and it tasted just like my Grandmother’s. Not too sweet and so creamy! Nothing like yellow cake and chocolate frosting! Thank you, this is a keeper!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Mary Ellen!
SO GOOD!! Super easy to make. Makes enough to frost and fill a 9-inch round cake with no piping borders. I’ve been baking and decorating cakes for a lot of years now and have tried LOTS of different recipes. This is one of the best I’ve ever tasted. Definitely will make this again.
WOW! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Yvonne!
What size cake does it frost? Does that include the filling or just the outside? how many cupcakes will it frost?
Hi there! In general, this will be enough to lightly frost a 9 x 13 sheet cake or about enough to frost 1 1/2 – 2 dozen cupcakes.
These are so good! I was afraid we’d pick up the slight fermented taste of sourdough but not at all. I made a half recipe which gave up 12 good size cupcakes. They rose great and the top has a shiny appearance similar to a brownie. Great texture. Im an older baker and my standby was the Betty Crocker chocolate cake for the past 45 years. To note another comment…a keeper! Thank you!
I made the icing. My husband was really impressed. My icing had a few little edie bitty little lumps in it but I think if I would have mixed it more . That would have fixed it or my coco may have been old. But it tasted GREAT. OH It was really creamy too.. I will never buy another chocolate frosting. Thank you so much.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Linda! It could be that the buttercream just wasn’t beaten for long enough. Also, always use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl so that all the ingredients are incorporated and no lumps of butter or sugar are left in the bowl when mixing.
Delicious, and so very easy to make. I will never use store bought again. Thank you for sharing!!
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Maxine!
Delicious!! The only chocolate frosting I will make from now on..
Chocolate frosting is delicious!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Sherilyn!
This icing is to die for!!! My customers can’t get enough of it. Thank you so much for taking the time to share it
Simple, creamy, and enough for 24 cupcakes. Not overly sweet. This is a keeper!
Today is National Chocolate Cake day and so I made a small cake for 2 <3 and made this 5 minute recipe. Problem is I could just eat the frosting out of the bowl….will be my favourite from now on.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Carol!
Can I just use my hand mixer?
Absolutely!
Wonderful taste and easy to make. Did not have whole milk on hand, so I used Half n Half.
It was/is amazing. Thank you.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Lynn!
Easiest and BEST recipe ever. Super easy. I hate plastic toppings and this is made with natural ingredients. Fantastic.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Julia!
Perfect recipe! Be sure to use really good quality Dutch Process Cocoa – it makes such a difference in the color and quality.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Angie!
I made this recipe and frosted the cake but forgot to refrigerate overnight. Is that still okay to eat?
Yes, a day out at room temp should be fine!
Very easy to make and I love the rich chocolate flavor…Thank you Kelly! I have been using the same chocolate recipe for over 30 years but I think I am switching now! I may even try adding a bit of espresso powder next time for a mocha flavor.
Amazing! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Anne!
Amazing!
I am absolutely sold on this recipe. It is easy to make and has a delicious flavor with such a creamy texture.
YESSSS! So thrilled you enjoyed it, Cathryn!
Delicate
Delicious
Hi! How long can this frosting be stored in the fridge?
Hi Melissa! The buttercream frosting can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temp and mix with a spoon or electric mixer.
Hi Kelly,
I m gonna try your recipe and see how it turns out. The previous recipe I tried always turned out to be gritty no matter how much I tried to avoid it. There was too much-powdered sugar in it. Although I loved the taste, it was unusable on cakes. However, your recipe doesn’t call for that kind of sugar, and there is enough of milk.
I hope you enjoy this recipe!
Really great and easy frosting. It’s not quite as rich as buttercream usually is, but it’s nevertheless a great frosting to work with. Husband loves it and it’ll definitely be my go-to recipe for quick fixes.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Maria!
Are there any adjustments for doubling the recipe??
Hi Nancy! No adjustments needed, this recipe doubles easily. :)
My regular chocolate frosting recipe wasn’t handy and my youngest daughter was begging for strawberry cupcakes with chocolate frosting. So I did a quick internet search for a simple no-cook chocolate frosting recipe. Although the proportions in this recipe were different than my regular recipe, I decided to give it a try due to the good reviews. Boy, am I glad I did!!!
Halfway through mixing, the frosting didn’t look good. But mixing it for a final two minutes as recommended produced a shiny, smooth, creamy frosting! It was delicious with a rich chocolate flavor! Thank you for posting it!
You are so welcome, Melissa! I’m thrilled you enjoyed it!
To make a vanilla/white buttercream frosting do you suggest following this recipe and just leaving out the cocoa powder?
Hi Jessica! I actually have a recipe for Easy Buttercream Frosting. Here’s the link to the recipe: https://www.justataste.com/video-easy-buttercream-frosting-recipe/ :)
A super quick, easy to make chocolate buttercream frosting and DELISH! A FAVORITE of ‘us chocolates lovers’!!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Carleen!
Thank you for the recipe it was delicious but I also have a question can I use it without the coco powder to but just the buttercream frosting.
Hi Penny! I actually have a recipe for Easy Buttercream Frosting. Here’s the link to the recipe: https://www.justataste.com/video-easy-buttercream-frosting-recipe/ :)
Gm can you use buttermilk in place of whole milk???
Sure! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thicker. :)
This buttercream is fantastic!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Hattie!
Hi. This looks so good. Will definitely try :)
Just a couple of questions; how long the does the frosting last in the fridge in the air tight container? Does this freeze well? Many thanks
Hi there! The buttercream frosting can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temp and mix with a spoon or electric mixer. And I’ve never tried freezing the frosting so I’m not sure what the texture would be like after defrosting/re-whipping it.
I can’t see the actual call for each of the ingredients..
6 ingredients with no ratio ?
Hi Janet – The amount of each ingredient is listed above.
Really good chocolate flavour, very smooth and delicious! Definitely a keeper.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Susan!
This is a great recipe! So good!!!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Audrey!
So easy and delicious!
What is another name for confectioners sugar please as I live in Australia.
Powdered sugar!
I love this recipe. It is light and fluffy and didn’t have that gritty oily taste that some buttercream frostings have. I just needed enough to frost a one layer yellow cake but I saved the rest just in case I needed it during the week. Thanks.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Christina!
Just like my Mama used to make when she was a baker and cake decorator. I am so glad I found this recipe. I felt like I’d stepped back into my childhood again when I tasted it!
Mama used to sift her Hershey’s cocoa powder and powdered sugar together to prevent lumps, and that’s what I did. Turned out perfect. It doesn’t taste like it only took 5 minutes. I give this a 5-star review
Love reading this, Mia! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Simple and delicious, even with just a standard hand mixer.
Quick and easy recipe, plus delicious result. This is definitely a keeper! Thank you!
You are so welcome, Dottie! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
Very fast! I ended up making it in the food processor. Will make again.
I’d recommend sifting the powdered sugar to prevent any little lumps, otherwise great recipe.
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Cori!
Super yum!
Best recipe I have ever tasted. Everyone at the table said it was delicious.
Awesome! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Laurie!
Best chocolate buttercream frosting I’ve tried. Super easy. For my friends 75th birthday I added in a splash of Scotch, fin login to the milk and it made for a heavenly smoky savory frosting that went well on the vegan chocolate cupcakes
Amazing! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
This recipe was so delicious and easy to make! My family gobbled it up. This will definitely be my new go-to!
I’m so thrilled to read this, Catherine!
Will this be enough frosting to ice a two layer 9 1/2″ round cake. The height of each cake is about 1 1/2″ so only a 3″ high cake. I guess I should have made a 3 layer cake.
Hi Jeanne – I’d recommend doubling the recipe as I’d rather you have ample frosting than not enough. :)
I made 1/2 cup of this mixing it in a small bowl stirring it with a teaspoon. It was just enough to frost the top of a box of store bought yellow cake mix baked in a 13×9 glass pan. Next time I’ll need to make the cake from scratch too. It was tasty frosting. I made it for my wife’s birthday. Thanks.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Paul!
Can i use heavy cream instead of milk ?
Sure! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thicker. :)
Everyone LOVED the chocolate butter cream frosting! Yay. My new go to for sure!!!!
SUPER yummy and actually really easy! I need simple instructions and actual measurements so I was very happy to stumble on this fab recipe. It was gobbled up very quickly by my husband and kids; so thank you! (Kiss hug!)
Yay! I’m so thrilled you and your family enjoyed the recipe, Deb!
Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
Hi Brenda – I haven’t tried that substitution so I’m not sure what the results would be. Let me know if you give it a shot!
Love this easy chocolate icing! So easy to make.
I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Jennifer!
So easy and so delicious! I love it beacause it isn’t so sweet!
I am not a dessert fan but a friend of mine has stage four cancer and I wanted to make something special for his birthday. I am delighted and thrilled with this recipe and my chocolate junkie husband gave it two thumbs up. He had mouth surgery today so that’s a big deal to get food in him. Thank you for sharing we love it❤
You are welcome, Shauna! I’m so glad the recipe was enjoyed by all. :)
Mine had little, tiny lumps. I think I will sift the confectioners and cocoa first..it .was not the butter. I love this frosting. Makes a perfect amount…not too much and it is so rich and has such depth of flavor.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Karie! :)
Life changer! Have used this multiple times now. Thank you!
Woohoo! I’m thrilled you’ve been enjoying the recipe, Kimberly!
Delicious and ridiculously easy! My husband hates a really sweet frosting and this was absolutely perfect. I’ve made it twice now and loved it. And you can freeze it which is great if you don’t use it all. This one’s a keeper!
I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
I agree with everyone else, easy and DELISH!
Easy peasy, and so rich and delicious! Love this!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed it, Christine!
Very easy and delish! I substituted unsweetened Coconut Milk because that’s all we use and worked good
Thrilled to read this, Carolyn!
Super easy! I didnt have cocoa powder, but I substituted with a chocolate powdered drink mix. I decreased the powdered sugar due to the substitution. I didn’t want the frosting to be too sweet. When my 6yro sampled the finished frosting, she called it a “spoonful of heaven”.
Thank you for sharing.
Awesome! Thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Tiffany!
what if I don’t have a stand up mixer???
Hi Joanne! A hand mixer works but it may not be as smooth.
This is my very first time ever making frosting , this turned out Excellent and instructions are easy to follow. I’m definitely keeping this one . Thanks for this recipe.
You are so welcome! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe!
This chocolate buttercream frosting was so easy to make. It is creamy and delicious!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Sharon!
This recipe was so easy and turned out wonderful! Thank you for posting it. My whole family enjoyed it and my husband thinks it is much better than store bought frosting!!!!
Woohoo! I’m so thrilled to read this, Kristen!
It was easy, tasty and not overly sweet, but a reminder to sift your powders! I forgot to sift the coco powder and I ended up with some clumps. Won’t forget next time!
Thanks!
If I still had bits of butter showing up is that because I didn’t get the butter soft enough before beating it?
Hi Terri – Yes. Always start with room-temp butter. Take it out of the fridge 30 to 60 minutes before getting started to bring it to room temperature.
This is the best chocolate buttercream I have ever made. I make buttercream all the time and thought I would try a different recipe and YUM. It’s SO smooth. I was worried at the start when the confectioners sugar and cocoa weren’t combining well with the butter but I kept mixing and it came together it turned out perfect!
Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Natalie!
Easy and tastes great. Used to decorate a large cookie.
Hi Kelly, does the cake have to be kept in the fridge once it’s iced? I always find it makes the sponge to firm.
Thank you Dee
Hi Dee! A decorated cake with buttercream frosting can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if it’s hot or humid where you live, store the cake in the fridge.
Quick and easy and tasty too.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Best icing recipe I’ve used-and I have frosted 100s of cakes. Beautiful consistency and not overly sweet. I had enough to frost a 2 layer cake.
Amazing! The easiest and best chocolate buttercream frosting I have ever made! Thank you so very much. This is definitely a keeper.
Should I double the recipe to frost a 13″ x 9″ sheet cake?
Hi Suzanne! In general, this will be enough to lightly frost a 9 x 13 sheet cake. For a thicker layer of frosting, I recommend doubling the recipe.
Great frosting and quick.
Great frosting. I used vegan butter and almond butter. It was great!
Awesome! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Wendy!
Ohhhhh wow! I just made this Buttercream frosting & it’s the creamiest & the BEST ever !!! (: Yum!
I’m thrilled you enjoyed it!
Can I use salted butter?
Yes! But I recommend leaving out the 1/4 teaspoon salt. :)
I used 1/2 C cocoa instead, just to try before adding the rest, and it was SO SO SOOOOOO delicious. I couldn’t top “tasting” it! Thank you for sharing! I’m sure it would have been great both ways, but it was perfect this way, & made a GREAT frosting for my white cake! :)
I think there was way to much coco powder all i could taste was it no good 1star and we bake all the time just didn’t want to bother my grandmother for her recipe but I for sure am next time
I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy the recipe, Luke.
The best chocolate buttercream frosting ever ! So easy to make. I give this a five star rating !
THE. BEST . RECIPIE. EVER
Hi! This recipe looks incredible! Can I use vanilla almond milk instead of whole milk?
That should work! But you might need to adjust the quantity since it’s a bit thinner.