Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup (30g) unsalted cocoa powder, sifted
  • 3 oz (85g) semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups (300g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Beat the softened butter and sifted cocoa powder together on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until a uniform, mahogany-colored aerated paste forms.
  2. Slowly stream in the cooled melted chocolate and vanilla extract while the mixer is running, scraping the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure the mixture is fully homogenized.
  3. Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time on low speed, then increase to high. Stir in the heavy cream and salt, beating on high for an additional 2 minutes until the texture is velvety and holds a stiff peak.