This luxurious gluten-free dark chocolate frosting will elevate the taste of all your baked treats. Surrender to the rich, velvety smoothness of this exquisite frosting. Its lustrous, sleek finish adds an elegant touch to any dessert.

Moist chocolate cake slice topped with glossy dark chocolate frosting and chopped walnuts, showing the rich texture and creamy finish

Rich and creamy, this buttercream frosting is delectable sandwiched between moist cake layers. Requiring just five basic ingredients, it’s quick and easy to whip up in a matter of minutes. It’s my go-to favorite for frosting brownies or crafting gluten-free cake pops, transforming a simple treat into something truly indulgent.

Is Homemade Frosting Worth the Effort Compared to Store-Bought?

When it comes to frosting, homemade often trumps store-bought for several reasons. Homemade frosting allows you to control the ingredients, so you have peace of mind when putting it on your homemade baked goods.

While store-bought frostings offer convenience, many of them are made with extra unnecessary ingredients such as palm oil (which makes the frosting taste funny) and artificial flavorings. Some of those ingredients, such as vanillin, are bio-engineered. As soon as I see “bio-engineered” on any food label, the product goes right back on the shelf.

What You’ll Love About This Frosting:

Rich Flavor

Dark chocolate offers a deep, intense flavor that pairs perfectly with various baked goods.

Healthier Option

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, and less sugar compared to milk chocolate, making it a healthier choice.

Diet Friendly

Being gluten-free, it’s suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Versatility

This frosting can be used on cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and even as a dip for fruits.

Easy to Make

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a breeze to whip up.

Is Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa Gluten-Free?

Indeed! I visited Hersheyland.com directly, and the product is made from 100% cacao, which is naturally unsweetened. It boasts both great versatility and a delightful taste. How wonderful is that? It’s a staple in my gluten-free pantry, ideal for making rich frostings and delicious homemade hot chocolate!

Bridget’s Recipe Tips

Too thick? Stir in one teaspoon of milk at a time until it spreads like a dream.

Too thin? No worries — just add sifted confectioners’ sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s just right.

Want that homemade look? Use a frosting knife to gently swirl the top — rustic, charming, and oh-so-pretty!

Dark Chocolate Frosting

Bridget Towery | Happy Healthy Homey

Rich and creamy, you can make this dark chocolate frosting in minutes!

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Ingredients

1/2 cup of butter unsalted
2/3 cup of Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa
3 cups of powdered sugar sifted
1/2 cup of whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in cocoa and stir until blended.
In a large mixing bowl, mix the butter/cocoa blend, powdered sugar and milk. ALTERNATE adding the powdered sugar and milk.
Beat until spreading consistency. Beat in vanilla extract until thoroughly blended.
Spread on cooled cake.

Notes

If frosting is too thick, mix in one teaspoon of milk until desired consistency is reached.
If frosting is too thin, add sifted confections’ sugar in one Tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
For a charming homemade appearance, employ a frosting knife to create swirls on your cake.

Enjoy the rich, velvety goodness of this gluten-free dark chocolate frosting on your favorite desserts. Whether you’re topping a cake, cupcakes, or simply indulging by the spoonful, this frosting is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

From my kitchen to yours,