This decadent, five-ingredient Dark Chocolate Buttercream Frosting comes together in about five minutes. Keep this recipe handy and you’ll skip the canned frosting aisle for good.
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Put down the canned frosting—this homemade Dark Chocolate Buttercream is richer, less cloying, and far easier than you might think. With just five simple ingredients you can make a silky, chocolate-forward buttercream that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and special treats. It’s my go-to for birthdays and bake sales because it consistently gets rave reviews.
The ingredient list is intentionally short: butter, chocolate extract, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and cocoa. Using a darker, high-quality cocoa adds depth; I prefer a dark baking cocoa for a richer flavor. Chocolate extract is optional but recommended if you want a real chocolate punch without adding melted chocolate.
This buttercream pairs beautifully with chocolate-based cupcakes and cakes, but it also complements simple vanilla layers for a contrast of flavors. The texture is creamy and spreadable, yet holds shape well enough for piping decorations.
Making the frosting is straightforward. Start with softened butter and beat it until light and fluffy. Add the chocolate extract and mix until incorporated. Then add half of the powdered sugar and beat to combine. Pour in the heavy cream, add the remaining powdered sugar and the cocoa, and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. If the frosting seems too stiff, add a splash more cream; if it’s too soft, add a little more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
Because the recipe relies on simple pantry ingredients, small changes can customize the result: use more cocoa for a darker chocolate flavor, swap a portion of the powdered sugar for sifted unsweetened cocoa to reduce sweetness, or add a touch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate notes. The frosting stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator; bring it back to room temperature and re-whip briefly before using.
Ready to make it? Here are the recipe details and simple instructions.
Print Recipe
Dark Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
- 4 sticks butter (softened)
- 4 teaspoons chocolate extract
- 5-1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cocoa
Instructions
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In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter until it is light and fluffy.
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Add chocolate extract and beat until combined.
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Add half of the powdered sugar and beat until well combined.
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Add the heavy cream, remaining powdered sugar, and cocoa. Beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Adjust cream or sugar to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition
If you want more chocolate recipes, join in during Chocolate Week where a group of bloggers share extra chocolate inspiration. This buttercream is a versatile base you’ll return to whenever a chocolate craving strikes.