Grandma Schreck'S Frosting
A quick, creamy vanilla frosting with sweetened cream and sugar, perfect for spreading on chocolate cake, suitable for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring cream and sugar to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (248°F).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Beat the mixture until it reaches spreading consistency.
- Spread on chocolate cake while still warm, working quickly as it sets rapidly.
- Double the recipe for a 9 x 13 inch cake or larger quantities as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer for precision. If you're short on cream, half-and-half can work as a substitute, though the texture may be slightly different. For added flavor, consider infusing the cream with a bit of espresso or almond extract. This frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate cake, but can also elevate vanilla or red velvet cakes.
Serving Suggestions
Spread this frosting on warm chocolate cake for a delightful treat. It also works well with cupcakes or as a filling for layer cakes. Consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delicious dessert experience. For a touch of elegance, top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until it softens and regains a spreadable consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent it from becoming too runny.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Schreck'S Frosting contains roughly 167 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if the frosting has reached the soft ball stage?
You can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds its shape but flattens when removed, it's ready. Alternatively, a candy thermometer should read 248°F at this stage.
Can I use a different flavor of extract instead of vanilla?
Absolutely! Almond, peppermint, or even citrus extracts can introduce unique flavors to the frosting. Just remember to adjust the quantity according to the strength of the extract, as some are more potent than others.
What should I do if my frosting sets too quickly?
If the frosting sets too quickly, you can warm it slightly over low heat to soften it up. Stir continuously while warming to ensure it reaches the right consistency without becoming too runny. Working quickly when spreading can also help manage the setting time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).