This rich and glossy Fudge Frosting is a classic, made the old-fashioned way on the stovetop. Unlike modern buttercreams, this frosting is cooked until it reaches a soft ball stage, resulting in a smooth, fudgy texture that sets beautifully. With pantry staples like cocoa, sugar, and milk, it offers an irresistibly chocolatey finish that hardens slightly as it cools, perfect for old-school cakes or brownies. Its simplicity and intense flavor make it a go-to recipe for special occasions and nostalgic bakes alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 tbsp cocoa
- 2 tbsp corn syrup
- ⅔ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, cocoa, corn syrup, and milk.
Step 2: Cook to Soft Ball Stage
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture forms a soft ball when a bit is dropped in cold water (approx. 234–240°F on a candy thermometer).
Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla
- Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla. Let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Beat Until Spreadable
- Beat until thick enough to spread on cake.
Tips
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent scorching.
- Use whole milk for a richer, creamier frosting.
- Let the frosting cool slightly if it seems too thin before spreading.
- Add the vanilla off heat to preserve flavor.
- Frost cakes while the icing is still warm for a smooth finish.
- Beat briefly while cooling for a thicker, fudgier texture.
- Works well on sheet cakes, brownies, or cupcakes.
- For deeper chocolate flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa.
Nutrition
Calories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 45mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1.5gSugar: 36gVitamin A: 180IUCalcium: 45mgIron: 1.2mg
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