Coconut Milk Frosting
Nora Collins
Coconut Milk Frosting is a light, dairy-free frosting made from chilled coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla that pipes beautifully onto dark chocolate cupcakes. This frosting is a reliable choice for anyone who wants a creamy, not-too-sweet topping without butter or cream cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 180 kcal
Hand Mixer
Mixing bowl
Piping bag with star tip
Sifter
- 2 cans full-fat coconut milk chilled 24 hours, solids only
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tbsp tapioca starch or cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract pure
- 2 tbsp desiccated coconut fine flakes, for garnish
- 12 dark chocolate cupcakes in brown paper liners
Open the chilled cans without shaking, scoop the thick cream into a cold mixing bowl, and discard the liquid or save it for another use.
Beat the coconut cream with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Sift in the powdered sugar and tapioca starch, then beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium and whip for another minute until light.
Pour in the vanilla extract and beat for 30 seconds more until the frosting is glossy and holds soft peaks.
Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe swirls onto the cooled cupcakes, and sprinkle with desiccated coconut.
Storage: Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; the frosting stays firm when cold.
Reheating: No reheating needed; serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Best Tips: Use only the solid coconut cream and a chilled bowl for the fluffiest texture; don't overbeat after adding sugar.
Variations: Add cocoa powder for chocolate frosting, or fold in raspberry puree for a berry swirl.
Keyword coconut cream frosting, coconut milk frosting, cupcake frosting, dairy free frosting, vegan frosting