Step 1

Add cocoa to large bowl and whisk to remove lumps (or sift). Add butter and beat until combined.

Step 2

Add sugar, vanilla, milk, and espresso powder, if using. Beat on low speed until combined; beat on high speed about 2 minutes until fluffy and smooth.

Step 3

If consistency of frosting is too thin, gradually add more sugar. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time until frosting is desired consistency.

Step 4

Makes enough to frost and fill a 2-layer cake, or to frost 24 cupcakes. Make a half batch for 9 x 13-inch cake unless you like a lot of frosting!