This Boiled Chocolate Frosting is a classic vintage recipe from the mid-20th century, offering a smooth, glossy finish perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and tortes. Made with simple pantry staples, the frosting combines sugar, cocoa, cream, and butter, boiled to perfection for a rich, velvety texture. The addition of vanilla enhances its flavor, and optional chopped nuts give it a delightful crunch. This recipe is beloved for its simplicity and timeless charm, representing a nostalgic era of homemade desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cream (or evaporated milk)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup nuts (chopped, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Beat the egg lightly in a small bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, cream, butter, and cocoa powder.
- Stir well to mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
- Place saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until mixture reaches a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Vanilla & Cool Slightly
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Beat Until Thickened
- Beat mixture until it thickens enough to spread smoothly over cake or cupcakes.
Step 6: Optional Nuts
- Stir in chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Tips
- Beat the frosting until it loses its gloss for a thicker, fudge-like spread.
- Add chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) as suggested on card for texture.
- Use evaporated milk or half-and-half if you don’t have cream.
- For deeper chocolate flavor, substitute part of cocoa with dark cocoa powder.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Spread while warm; it sets up as it cools.
- If it gets too stiff, rewarm gently and beat again.
- Add ½ teaspoon instant coffee to enhance chocolate flavor.
- Pour over sheet cake for classic old-fashioned “boiled icing” finish.
- Double the recipe for a 9×13-inch cake.
Nutrition
Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 17.5gProtein: 0.7gFat: 4.7gSaturated Fat: 2.7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 35mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.3mg
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