The following “CHEW THIS!” column originally appeared a in “The Courier-Times” and / or “The Shelbyville News” as well as other publications. Check their websites for further information or write to me for more details as to where this can be viewed.
Coconut Pecan Frosting
People all the time act like they are “above” store bought frosting and I have something to say about that. I am not. I think having it in your cabinet as a backup is a good idea. Even if you are not using it for frosting a cake, brownies or cupcakes, you can still use it for the base of a lot of things. In a pinch, you can add it to melted chocolate chips to create an instant fudge, you can add it to ice cream for a simple and cheap ice cream topping, melt and pour over popcorn and even melt and pour into a milk shake. I also have a recipe where you can take melted store bought frosting, add it to your cake mix and bake! Search, “Inside Out German Cake” on my website.
The recipe I am sharing here today is better than store bought and can use used on a variety of desserts including cakes, cupcakes, brownies or spoons. It is important to leave this frosting to cool for 30 minutes before using. I usually do this at room temperature, so the frosting still has a spreadable consistency but you could do it in the refrigerator too. You will just need to stir the frosting longer and more vigorously before using it as desired.
Coconut Pecan Frosting
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 stick unsalted butter
3 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup shredded coconut
In a medium sized pot over medium heat, stir and combine the evaporated milk, packed light brown sugar, unsalted butter, egg yolks and the pure vanilla extract.
Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Once at a boil, continue to stir constantly until the mixture thickens, which will take about 20 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut. Allow this mixture to cool for about 30 minutes before using as desired.
Enjoy!
Ask and Answer: What is your favorite cupcake trick or hack? Email me and let me know!