This chocolate French buttercream is silky smooth, ultra-light, and subtly sweet. My simple and foolproof version requires no double boiler or finicky sugar syrup!
Using an electric hand mixer or immersion blender, whisk yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and the sugar is mostly dissolved. Stir in the milk. (TIP: It's best to use a bowl with high sides, so it doesn't spray out everywhere.)
Transfer the egg yolk mixture into a small saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring frequently. Continue to cook until it’s thick like a pudding, 5-10 minutes. Pour the mixture into a clean bowl and cool slightly.
Stir in the butter in three batches, mixing well after each addition. I use a silicone spatula for this step.
Melt the chocolate chips according to the package directions. (I melt it in a microwave in 30-second increments at 50% power.) Let it cool slightly.
Add melted chocolate and mix until smooth.
Notes
Yields: 1 cup (240g) buttercreamNote 1: The butter should be soft and dent easily when pressed, but shouldn't be melting.Note 2: Milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips all work great. The frosting will be sweeter with milk chocolate and more intense with dark chocolate. Storing Tips: - Transfer the buttercream to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Let the buttercream sit at room temperature for 20 minutes until it's thick but spreadable. - French buttercream freezes well too! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. - Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature. Whip with a hand mixer if necessary.