Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of pantry staples.
- Quick Preparation: Comes together in just a few steps.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for a variety of desserts.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Melt and Combine: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate Sugar: Remove from heat. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated and the icing is smooth and glossy.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Apply While Warm: Pour the icing over your dessert while it’s still warm and spreadable. It will set as it cools, forming a fudge-like layer.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields enough icing to cover a standard 9×13-inch cake or a batch of brownies.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
- Cooking Time: About 5 minutes.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Mocha Flavor: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives to make it vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store unused icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm the icing in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave to regain spreadability.
FAQs
What desserts pair well with fudge icing?
Fudge icing complements chocolate and vanilla cakes, brownies, cupcakes, and even cookies.
Can I make this icing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it as mentioned above. Reheat gently before use.
How can I prevent the icing from setting too quickly?
Have your dessert ready to frost immediately after preparing the icing, as it sets as it cools.
Is it possible to reduce the sweetness?
To balance the sweetness, consider adding a pinch of salt or using dark cocoa powder.
Can I use this icing as a filling?
Yes, it works well as a filling between cake layers or in pastries.
What if my icing turns out too thick?
If the icing is too thick, add a small amount of warm milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Can I freeze desserts with this icing?
Yes, desserts topped with fudge icing can be frozen. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How do I make the icing shinier?
Ensuring the powdered sugar is well-sifted and thoroughly mixing the icing can enhance its glossy finish.
What type of cocoa powder is best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for a rich chocolate flavor.
Can I add flavors to this icing?
Absolutely! Extracts like almond or peppermint can be added for different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Fudge Icing is a timeless recipe that brings a rich, chocolatey finish to your favorite desserts. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to choice for bakers looking to add a touch of classic sweetness to their creations.
Old-Fashioned Fudge Icing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost a 9x13-inch cake or a batch of brownies
- Category: Dessert, Frosting
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Fudge Icing is a rich, chocolatey topping with a smooth, glossy finish, perfect for cakes, brownies, and more. Made with simple ingredients, it sets into a delicious, fudge-like layer that adds a nostalgic touch to your baked treats.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Melt and Combine – In a medium saucepan, heat butter, milk, and cocoa powder over medium heat. Stir until smooth.
- Incorporate Sugar – Remove from heat and gradually stir in sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully combined and glossy.
- Add Vanilla – Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Apply While Warm – Spread the icing over your dessert while still warm. It will set as it cools into a fudge-like layer.
Notes
- For a nutty variation, mix in chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a mocha twist.
- Use plant-based milk and butter for a dairy-free version.
- If the icing thickens too much, reheat gently with a splash of milk.
