Introduction
Let’s get one thing straight—homemade chocolate frosting hits totally different than the store-bought stuff. And when you’re working with Hershey’s cocoa, you know it’s going to be good. This quick and easy Hershey’s Chocolate Frosting is my go-to when I want something rich, creamy, and full of real chocolate flavor. It’s ready in under 10 minutes and makes cakes, cupcakes, brownies (or let’s be honest—spoons) taste a hundred times better. You don’t need fancy ingredients or techniques—just good ol’ cocoa, butter, and love. 💛
Detailed Ingredients 🍫🧈🥛🍦🥄
Here’s what you’ll need to make this luscious chocolate frosting:
- 🧈 ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
- 🍫 ⅔ cup Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa powder
- 🍬 3 cups powdered sugar
- 🥛 ⅓ cup milk (plus a splash more if needed)
- 🍦 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tip: Use salted butter—it helps balance out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor!
Direction
- In a medium mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter.
- Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth and rich.
- Alternately add 1 cup of powdered sugar and a little of the milk, beating with an electric mixer as you go.
- Continue adding the sugar and milk, beating until the frosting is thick, smooth, and spreadable.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash more milk until you reach your perfect consistency.
- Frost your favorite cake, cupcakes, or brownies—and prepare for compliments. 🧁
My Story
I still remember the first time I made this frosting—it was on a Sunday afternoon when I realized I was out of the tub stuff and had a serious cupcake situation on my hands. I grabbed my Hershey’s cocoa, crossed my fingers, and this magical frosting happened. It was rich, silky, not too sweet, and had that deep cocoa flavor I’d been craving. From that day on, this has been my forever chocolate frosting. I’ve used it on birthday cakes, brownies, and even sandwiched between graham crackers for a little indulgent snack. It’s ridiculously easy, and it tastes like childhood and comfort and love all rolled into one perfect scoop.

FAQ
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temp before using and give it a good stir.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
What if my frosting is too thick?
Add milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I pipe this frosting?
Totally! It holds its shape well, especially after chilling for a few minutes.
Is this frosting good for layer cakes?
Yes! It spreads beautifully and works perfectly between layers and over the top.
Suggestion
Here are 5 fun ways to use (and love) this chocolate frosting:
- 🧁 Swirl it onto cupcakes with a star piping tip for bakery vibes.
- 🍫 Spread it over brownies for a rich double-chocolate treat.
- 🍓 Top it with berries for a fancy finish on cakes or sheet bakes.
- 🍪 Sandwich it between cookies for the ultimate homemade treat.
- 🍦 Use it as a dip for pretzels, strawberries, or graham crackers.
Conclusion
This Hershey’s Chocolate Frosting recipe is proof that sometimes, the simplest things are the best. With just five pantry ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you get a rich, chocolatey frosting that makes any dessert feel special. It’s smooth, luscious, and brings that perfect homemade touch to cakes, cupcakes, and everything in between. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just treating yourself (because you should), this frosting delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. So next time you’re in need of a sweet topping, skip the can and whip this up—you won’t go back.
— Sarah Cooper, Gotubbe.com
