This classic Chocolate Icing recipe is a delightful throwback to vintage American baking. Handwritten on a worn card, it’s likely been passed down through generations, cherished for its simplicity and nostalgic charm. The inclusion of powdered sugar, shortening, and melted chocolate creates a fluffy, sweet, and rich frosting ideal for cakes, cupcakes, or brownies. Perfect for birthdays or special occasions, it showcases a time-tested technique for creating smooth, homemade frosting with just a few pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 egg (large, unbeaten )
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup shortening (soft )
- 2 oz unsweetened chocolate (melted)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- Melt the unsweetened chocolate and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Base
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the unbeaten egg, powdered sugar, and salt.
Step 3: Add Shortening and Chocolate
- Add the soft shortening and melted chocolate to the bowl.
Step 4: Beat Until Fluffy
- Using a rotary beater (or electric mixer), beat the mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Use or Store
- Spread immediately on cooled cake or cupcakes. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Replace shortening with softened butter for a richer flavor.
- Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for enhanced aroma.
- For a thicker icing, add an extra ¼ cup powdered sugar.
- For a glossier finish, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of warm milk.
- Use melted bittersweet chocolate instead of unsweetened for a deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to intensify chocolate notes.
- Chill for 10 minutes before spreading for a firmer texture.
- Make it dairy-free by keeping the shortening and omitting milk add-ins.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cupcakeCalories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 1gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 75mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 45IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.6mg
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