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Coconut Milk Frosting

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
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Hand Mixer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Piping bag with star tip
  • Sifter

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

  • 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.

Notes

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