Malted Chocolate Buttercream Frosting Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich chocolate flavors and love a touch of nostalgia, this Malted Chocolate Buttercream Frosting is about to become your new favorite.

Imagine the creamy texture of a chocolate buttercream frosting, but with a twist of malted milk powder. Like those old-fashioned chocolate malt milkshakes!

This frosting is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or even as a decadent filling for cookies. It’s an easy recipe that delivers a big punch of flavor, making it a go-to for any chocolate lover.

One of the best parts about this frosting is how simple it is to make. You can whip up a batch with just a few simple ingredients and a stand mixer in no time.

Chocolate malts were always my favorite growing up. It’s an American classic! I suppose that makes this an American buttercream, haha!

The texture is so creamy, fudgy, and smooth that it spreads like a dream on your favorite cakes and desserts.

Whether you’re decorating a birthday cake, frosting a batch of homemade chocolate cupcakes, this homemade frosting is for you.

It’s rich, it’s decadent, and it’s the perfect addition to any sweet treat. Trust me, once you try this chocolate buttercream frosting, you’ll be finding excuses to make it again and again!

1. Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and malted milk powder creates a rich, deep chocolate flavor with a hint of nostalgia.
2. Creamy Texture: The butter and powdered sugar whipped together create a smooth, creamy texture that’s perfect for spreading on cakes and cupcakes.
3. Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of common pantry items, this frosting is easy to make and doesn’t require any complicated steps or fancy equipment.

• Salted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Cocoa powder
• Malted milk powder
• Vanilla extract

1. In the body of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, add the butter and whip until smooth.
2. Add in half of the powdered sugar, stir on low speed to medium speed to combine.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of the milk, stir to combine.
4. Add the cocoa powder, stir to combine.

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1. Add an additional 2 tablespoons of milk, stir to combine.
2. Add the malt powder, stir to combine.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of milk with the vanilla, stir it in so everything is combined.
4. Turn up the speed to medium-high and whip for 3 minutes. Use immediately.

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WHAT IS MALT?

Malt is a grain, usually barley, that has been soaked, germinated, and dried.

When it’s processed into malted milk powder, it adds a sweet, slightly toasted flavor to foods and drinks.

It’s the secret ingredient that gives this frosting its unique taste.

Just like a classic recipe for chocolate shakes!

WHERE CAN I FIND MALTED MILK POWDER?

Malted milk powder can typically be found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.

Look near the cocoa powder and powdered sugar.

If you have trouble finding it, you can also order it online.

It’s a great addition to your pantry for adding a nostalgic twist to various recipes.

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ANY ADDITIONS?

​Who ever heard of a delicious frosting that you could change up?

All my favorite recipes are ones that I tweaked here or there.

• Espresso powder: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder for a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Pinch of salt: A small pinch of salt can enhance the chocolate flavor even more.
• Heavy cream: Substitute a tablespoon of milk with heavy cream for an even richer texture.
• Melted chocolate: Fold in a bit of melted chocolate for an extra chocolatey boost.
• Vanilla bean: Swap the vanilla extract with the seeds from a vanilla bean for a more intense vanilla flavor.
• Dutch-process cocoa: Use Dutch-process cocoa for a darker, richer chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a bit of texture in your frosting.
• Nutella: Mix in a spoonful of Nutella for a nutty, chocolatey twist.
• Peanut butter: Add a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
• Coconut flakes: Top your frosted dessert with shredded coconut for a tropical touch.

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

Aren’t there always! I’ve got you covered here. Let me know how it goes in the comments!

• Unsalted butter for salted butter: If you prefer to control the salt level, use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to taste.
• Almond milk for regular milk: For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk.
• Cocoa powder for Dutch-process cocoa: If you don’t have Dutch-process cocoa, regular unsweetened cocoa powder works just fine.
• Margarine for butter: In a pinch, you can use margarine instead of butter, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

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Refrigerator: Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Before using it again, allow the frosting to come to room temperature and give it a quick whip with an electric mixer to restore its creamy texture.

Freezer: You can freeze this frosting for up to 3 months.

Place the frosting in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

When you’re ready to use it, thaw the frosting in the refrigerator overnight, then bring it to room temperature and whip it with a mixer until smooth.

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Chocolate Buttercream Frosting is the perfect way to add a rich, creamy, and nostalgic touch to your baked goods.

Top your cupcakes with it. Spread it on your graham crackers. Whatever tastes good! 

Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, and I’m sure it will become one of your favorite ways to top your desserts!