Chocolate Buttercream

I love a good buttercream, but most of the recipes out there seem to be lacking that little extra 'something'. I have found that by adding a little espresso powder, you can really bring out a whole new depth of chocolate flavor that takes this frosting to whole new level.

Espresso powder can be found in the coffee section of your local supermarket, Cafe Bustelo is the easiest-to-find brand, and comes in a bright yellow and red can.

What you need:
1 1/2 cups butter (3 sticks), softened
1 cup unsweetened cocoa
5 cups confectioner’s sugar
1/2 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon espresso powder

How to make it:
1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cocoa powder. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this.

2. Start adding in the sugar and milk by adding 1 cup of sugar, then 1 tablespoon of milk. Mix together on high for one minute before adding another cup of sugar and tablespoon of milk. Repeat until all sugar and milk have been mixed in.

3. Mix in espresso powder and vanilla extract.

4. Depending on the temperature of your home, this frosting may need just a little tweaking to get perfect. If it is a little too dry, add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it is the consistency you like. If it is too wet, add more confectioner's sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it is the consistency you want.