Very Good Cooked Icing(An Old Family Recipe)

Cook: 8 min Cuisine: American

A rich, smooth cooked icing with sweet vanilla flavor, perfect for frosting cakes and cookies. It offers a nostalgic taste and a classic finish for baked treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 stick butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla

Instructions

  1. Boil sugar and milk together in an iron skillet for 8 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla.
  3. Beat until the mixture thickens.
  4. Use the icing to frost your cake.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you find the icing too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve your desired consistency. To prevent crystallization, make sure to stir continuously while boiling. This icing pairs beautifully with Moist Applesauce Cake as well, adding a delightful touch to the dessert.

Serving Suggestions

This icing is perfect for frosting cakes, especially chocolate or vanilla varieties. It can also be drizzled over brownies or used as a filling for cookies. Consider serving with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It also complements Grandma Helen'S Orange Delight Cookies beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Very Good Cooked Icing(An Old Family Recipe) contains roughly 338 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value).

338 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 14.5g 19% DV
Carbs 16.5g 6% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 8.7g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 16.1mg 1% DV
Potassium 169.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 42.5mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 11.3mg 13% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 24.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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

Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute any type of milk, including almond or soy milk, for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might slightly change depending on the milk you choose. Full-fat milk will yield a creamier icing, while low-fat options may result in a lighter texture.

How do I know when the icing is thick enough?

The icing should be thick enough to hold its shape when spread. A good test is to dip a spoon into the mixture; if it coats the back of the spoon and leaves a line when you run your finger through it, it's ready. Remember that it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Can I add food coloring to this icing?

Absolutely! You can add food coloring to achieve your desired shade. It's best to add it after you've mixed in the butter and vanilla for even distribution. Start with a few drops and mix thoroughly, adding more until you reach the desired color. This is a great way to customize your icing for special occasions.

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).

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