Seven-Minute Frosting Meringue II

enough for 1 layer cake servings Prep: 5 m Cook: 7 m Total: 12 m Intermediate
5.0/5 (1)
Seven-Minute Frosting Meringue II
This frosting is wonderful for a homemade coconut cake—just add coconut on top when you spread it. Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet with egg whites, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla. Remember this frosting should be prepared when the humidity is not too high, or it won’t set properly.

Ingredients

enough for 1 layer cake servings
  • 2 egg whites, unbeaten
  • 1 1/2 cup sugar
  • dash of salt
  • 5 tbsp water
  • 1 1/2 tsp light corn syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine egg whites, sugar, salt, water and corn syrup in top of double boiler, mixing thoroughly.
  2. Place over rapidly boiling water and beat constantly at high speed for 7 minutes or until the frosting will stand up in peaks.
  3. Remove from double boiler, add vanilla and beat until thick enough to spread. Coconut can now be added if desired.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why won't my frosting hold its peaks?

A: High humidity is the enemy of meringue-based frostings. Choose a dry day to make this, and make sure you beat it for the full 7 minutes over boiling water. The frosting should be glossy and stand up in stiff peaks before you remove it from heat.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Seven-minute frosting is best used immediately after making it. It doesn't store well and can weep or deflate if left sitting. Frost your cake right away for the best texture and appearance.

Q: Why is my frosting grainy?

A: Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved during the cooking process. Keep the water boiling rapidly and beat constantly—this helps the sugar dissolve completely and creates a smooth, fluffy texture.

Tips and Techniques

Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the full 7 minutes of beating—this is not a task for a whisk. Your arm will give out before the frosting is ready. Make sure the water in the bottom of your double boiler stays at a rapid boil the entire time.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • light corn syrup: honey or golden syrup
  • vanilla extract: almond extract or coconut extract

Equipment Needed

  • double boiler
  • electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  • rubber spatula

Historical Context

Seven-minute frosting became popular in the early 20th century as a simpler alternative to boiled frosting, which required a candy thermometer and precise temperature monitoring. The name comes from the seven minutes of beating time needed to achieve the perfect fluffy consistency.