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–+ servings
Boiled Chocolate Frosting from Leona Parcher
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.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling and Beating 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course frosting
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 110 kcal

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
Keyword boiled icing, cake frosting, chocolate frosting, easy icing, heirloom recipe, homemade frosting, old fashioned, vintage recipe
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