Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of cocoa. It’s a luscious topping that adds a creamy chocolate twist to your cakes and cupcakes, making every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (brick-style, not spreadable)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar*
• ½ cup natural cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the softened butter and cream cheese in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer or a stand mixer, beat until the mixture is creamy, well-combined, and lump-free.
2. Step 2: Add the vanilla extract and salt, then stir well to combine.
3. Step 3: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Add the cocoa powder and beat until it is fully mixed into the frosting. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
5. Step 5: Spread the frosting over completely cooled cakes or cupcakes for a smooth, chocolatey finish.

Tips & Variations

• Make sure the butter and cream cheese are properly softened to avoid lumps in your frosting.
• If you prefer a sweeter frosting, add a little more powdered sugar to taste.
• For a deeper chocolate flavor, try using Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of natural.
• If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Storage

Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore the creamy texture. This frosting is not freezer-friendly as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use whipped cream cheese instead of brick-style?

It’s best to use brick-style cream cheese as whipped cream cheese contains added stabilizers and water that can affect the texture of the frosting.

Is this frosting suitable for piping decorations?

Yes, this frosting holds its shape well, making it good for piping simple decorations. If piping intricate designs, chill it slightly for firmer consistency.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 77 reviews

This silky and rich Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect blend of creamy cream cheese and luscious cocoa powder, combined with smooth butter and just the right amount of sweetness. Ideal for frosting cakes and cupcakes, it offers a decadent chocolate flavor with a slight tang from the cream cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Enough to frost one 9-inch cake or 24 cupcakes
• Category: Dessert Frosting
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Frosting Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (brick-style, not spreadable)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup natural cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Combine Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is creamy, well combined, and free of lumps.
2. Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
3. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: With your mixer running on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, ensuring it is completely combined to create a smooth frosting base.
4. Add Cocoa Powder: Add the natural cocoa powder and beat well until fully incorporated into the frosting. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to make sure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
5. Frosting Application: Use the prepared frosting to frost completely cooled cakes or cupcakes for a rich and delicious chocolate cream cheese finish.

Notes

• Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture.
• Gradually add powdered sugar to avoid dust clouds and ensure thorough mixing.
• Scraping the bowl during mixing ensures an even and well-blended frosting.
• Use this frosting immediately or refrigerate it; bring to room temperature and briefly re-whip before frosting.
• This frosting pairs excellently with chocolate, vanilla, or red velvet cakes.

Keywords: Chocolate cream cheese frosting, chocolate frosting, cream cheese frosting, cake frosting, cupcake frosting, chocolate cream cheese icing