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–+ servings
Glossy Chocolate Frosting
This vintage recipe for Glossy Chocolate Frosting and Bittersweet Topping is a nostalgic staple perfect for any baker's repertoire. Designed for flexibility, it includes precise measurements for multiple cake sizes, from small home desserts to large layer cakes. The glossy finish of the chocolate frosting adds a professional sheen, while the bittersweet topping creates a luxurious, poured-over effect that sets beautifully. Ideal for special occasions or everyday indulgences, it’s a go-to chocolate frosting that stores well and spreads smoothly when warmed slightly.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course frosting
Cuisine American
Servings 18 cakes
Calories 1659 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ¾ lbs chocolate
  • 1 ¼ lbs butter
  • 2 lbs granulated sugar
  • 4 oz corn syrup
  • 1 ¼ quarts hot water
  • 10 lbs powdered sugar

Instructions
 

Step 1: Melt Chocolate & Butter

  • In a large pot, melt the chocolate and butter together over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.

Step 2: Dissolve Sugars

  • In a separate saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and hot water.
  • Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute or until the mixture becomes clear.

Step 3: Combine & Cool

  • Remove the sugar mixture from heat and let it cool to about 150°F.

Step 4: Blend with Chocolate & Sugar

  • Gradually stir in the powdered sugar and the melted chocolate-butter mixture.
  • Beat well until smooth, glossy, and fully blended.

Step 5: Keep Warm While Using

  • To keep the frosting spreadable, maintain it at around 100°F.
  • If it thickens, warm gently over hot water and stir until smooth again.

Tips

  • Add a splash of vanilla extract after mixing for a deeper flavor.
  • Substitute part of the butter with heavy cream for an ultra-silky finish.
  • For darker, more intense chocolate flavor, use bittersweet chocolate.
  • Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
  • To make it pourable (like a glaze), warm gently before using.
  • Add espresso powder to intensify chocolate notes.
  • Stir in chopped nuts for a textured frosting.
  • Chill slightly for piping consistency.
  • Thin with warm water a teaspoon at a time if too thick.
  • Spread on warm cake for a shiny, ultra-glossy coat.

Nutrition

Calories: 1659kcalCarbohydrates: 374gProtein: 4gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 250mgPotassium: 222mgFiber: 4gSugar: 351gCalcium: 87mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Baking, brown sugar frosting, cake topping, chocolate, chocolate frosting, citrus dessert topping, classic frosting, heirloom recipe, homemade icing, retro recipes, vintage baking
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