The Best Chocolate Frosting for Brownies

This is the best frosting for brownies! It's rich, fudgy, and full of chocolate flavor. Best of all, it comes together in minutes!

Makes 1.5 cups frosting, enough to frost 9x13 pan of brownies.

Course Dessert

Cuisine Frosting

Keyword brownie icing, brownie topping, chocolate frosting for brownies

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 1

Total Time 6

Servings

Calories 79kcal

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) softened to room temperature or microwaved for 10 seconds
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder I use Hershey's brand
2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk (you can add more to reach desired consistency)

In a microwave-safe mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter (½ cup, i.e. 1 stick), vanilla extract (2 teaspoons), and salt (¼ teaspoon) on medium-high speed for 1 minute until smooth. Turn the mixer to low speed then slowly add the unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup) and powdered sugar (2 cups). You may need to stop and scrape down the sides. Add 2 tablespoons of milk.
Beat on high for 1-2 minutes until creamy and the frosting is at a good consistency to pipe. If it looks too runny, add more powdered sugar. If it looks too stiff, add another 1-2 tablespoons of milk until you get to the desired consistency.
Place the mixing bowl in the microwave and heat for 15 to 30 seconds, or until glossy, easy to stir and smooth.
Spread the frosting onto a 9x13 pan of brownies.
Although the sugar to milk ratio makes the frosting shelf stable for 1-2 days, you may want to store your frosted brownies in the fridge for peace of mind.

Nutrition is just an estimate and calculated for frosting only; based on 24 servings.