Black Walnut Stovetop Icing - Master Cookbook Recipe # 400

Name: Black Walnut Stovetop Icing - Master Cookbook Recipe # 400
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 1 (one) 9x13 sheet cake or fills and frosts a 2-layer cake
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1/2 cup salted butter; 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 Tbsp corn syrup; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1/4 cup crushed black walnuts; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt

A rich, buttery, and deeply flavorful icing that brings back fond memories of classic Southern baking. The crushed black walnuts release their natural oils, creating a perfect balance with the caramel-like sweetness of the stovetop base.

This is recipe #400 in Tammy’s Master Cookbook.

Prep time: 10 minCook time: 15 minTotal time: 25 min

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Ingredients

1/2 cup salted butter
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 Tbsp corn syrup
1 cup evaporated milk
1/4 cup crushed black walnuts
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Melt Butter: In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Use a fork to swirl the butter and coat the sides of the pot.
Dissolve Sugars: Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer on medium-low heat, cooking for about 4 minutes. Do not rush this; ensure all granules are fully dissolved before the mixture reaches a full boil.
Boil: Once the sugar is melted, increase the heat, cover, and bring to a full boil. Cook until the icing reaches 234°F (soft ball stage).
Cool & Mix: Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer.
Finish: Beat at high speed while adding the vanilla extract, walnuts, salt, and powdered sugar.
Ice: Spread the icing on your cake immediately before it sets.

Notes

Tammy's Tips

Always chop or crush your black walnuts just before adding them to help release their natural oils and maximize the flavor throughout the icing. Be patient during the simmering stage to ensure the sugar is completely smooth, as rushing this step can result in a grainy texture.