Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 3 cups powdered sugar, measured then sifted
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, more or less as needed

Instructions

1. 

   1

   Cream the butter and cocoa – In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Add the sifted cocoa powder and vanilla extract, then mix on low speed until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

2. 

   2

   Add the powdered sugar – Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined and smooth.

3. 

   3

   Adjust the consistency – Add heavy cream or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a thick, creamy consistency that holds its shape. If desired, taste and add a small pinch of salt.

4. 

   4

   Finish the frosting – Beat the frosting on medium-high speed for another 2-3 minutes until light, fluffy, and airy. Stir gently with a spatula to remove large air pockets, then spread or pipe onto cakes, cupcakes, brownies, cookies, or other cooled desserts.