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–+ servings
Coconut Seven Minute Frosting
This Coconut Seven Minute Frosting is a glossy, marshmallow-like topping that transforms any layered cake into a celebration. Originating from classic American baking traditions, this style of frosting is named for the length of time it is cooked over boiling water while being whipped to fluffy perfection. The addition of shredded coconut while the frosting is still soft gives it texture and a delicate tropical sweetness, perfect for special occasions or coconut lovers. A Southern favorite, it’s ideal for coconut cakes, Easter desserts, or vintage-themed gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course frosting
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 165 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 egg whites (unbeaten)
  • 2¼ cups sugar
  • 7½ tbsp water
  • 2½ tsp light corn syrup
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½-2 cups shredded coconut (Baker’s, Southern Style)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Double Boiler

  • Fill the bottom of a double boiler with water and bring to a boil.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

  • In the top section of the double boiler (off the heat), combine egg whites, sugar, water, and corn syrup. Beat lightly with a rotary beater until mixed.

Step 3: Cook Over Boiling Water

  • Place the bowl over the boiling water and beat constantly with an electric mixer (or hand whisk) for 7 minutes, or until the mixture forms stiff peaks.

Step 4: Finish the Frosting

  • Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Beat until thick enough to spread.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

  • Spread frosting between layers, on top, and on the sides of the cake. Sprinkle generously with coconut while frosting is still soft.

Tips

  • Use very clean, grease-free beaters to ensure maximum volume
  • Frost the cake while frosting is still warm for best spreading
  • Add extra shredded coconut for texture
  • Works best on yellow or white layer cakes
  • Can be tinted lightly with food coloring if desired
  • For less sweetness, reduce sugar slightly and increase coconut
  • Avoid humid days, boiled frostings can deflate in high humidity
  • Spread immediately; frosting sets quickly
  • Excellent for vintage or holiday cakes

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 3.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 25mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword boiled frosting, classic cake topping, coconut frosting, holiday cake, retro baking, seven minute frosting, vintage cake icing
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