Name: Decadent Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-484004H32M59S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8-ounce/226g) package cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup (170g) butter, softened; 1 pound (450g) powdered sugar; ⅔ cup (66g) cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter); 1 tablespoon whole milk (optional)

Get ready to elevate your desserts with this irresistible Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting! This recipe combines the rich, tangy flavor of cream cheese with the deep, indulgent taste of cocoa, creating a frosting that’s simply out of this world. It’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or even as a dip for fresh fruit. Trust me, once you try this frosting, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly Balanced: The cream cheese adds a lovely tang that cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced frosting.
Velvety Smooth: This frosting whips up incredibly smooth and creamy, making it a dream to spread or pipe.
Versatile: It’s great on everything from chocolate cake to red velvet cupcakes, and even works as a delicious fruit dip.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have professional-quality frosting in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cream Cheese: The star of the show, providing that tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect consistency.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps create a smooth texture.
Cocoa Powder: Brings that deep chocolate flavor we all love.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a touch of warmth.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness (skip if using salted butter).
Milk: Optional, for adjusting consistency if needed.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Mocha Twist: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee for a delicious mocha flavor.
Peppermint Chocolate: Mix in a 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a cool, minty kick.
Orange Chocolate: Grate in some orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Extra Dark Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder for an even richer chocolate flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This should take about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Half the Sugar

Mix in the vanilla extract and salt (if using). Then, sift in half of the powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined.

Step 3: Add Remaining Sugar and Cocoa

Sift in the rest of the powdered sugar and all of the cocoa powder. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed and whip for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

If the frosting seems too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are properly softened for the smoothest results.
Sift, Sift, Sift: Don’t skip sifting the dry ingredients. It prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth frosting.
Don’t Overbeat: While it’s important to whip the frosting well, overbeating can lead to a runny consistency.
Chill if Necessary: If your frosting feels too soft for piping, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up.

How to Serve

This frosting is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to use it:

Spread it generously on your favorite chocolate cake or cupcakes.
Use it to frost red velvet treats for a classic combination.
Pipe it onto graham crackers for a quick, indulgent snack.
Serve it as a dip with fresh strawberries, bananas, or pretzels.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip before using.

Freezing

You can freeze this frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature and whip before using.

Reheating

This frosting doesn’t need reheating, but if it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature until spreadable.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
While you can, full-fat cream cheese will give you the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may result in a thinner frosting.

Why is my frosting too runny?
This could be due to overbeating or ingredients that are too warm. Try chilling the frosting for 15-20 minutes, then beating again.

Can I make this frosting without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! A hand mixer works great, or you can even mix by hand with a whisk if you’re up for a workout.

How much cake will this frosting cover?
This recipe makes about 5 cups of frosting, which is enough to generously frost a 9-inch two-layer cake or about 24 cupcakes.

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting is a game-changer in the world of desserts. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced between tangy and sweet. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your mixer and get ready to create some frosting magic – your taste buds will thank you!