Description
This Caramel Frosting Recipe is rich, buttery, and velvety smooth with deep caramel flavor. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or even as a filling, this easy homemade frosting adds a luxurious touch to any dessert. Whether you're baking for fall or just love the sweet, toasted notes of caramel, this frosting delivers bold flavor and silky texture every time.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 2–2½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel flavor)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble (about 2–3 minutes).
- Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. Beat in powdered sugar gradually until the frosting reaches a smooth, fluffy consistency.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired.
- Adjust consistency as needed: add more cream if too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.
Notes
- Use dark brown sugar for a deeper, richer caramel flavor.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.
- Mix in a spoonful of cream cheese for tangy depth.
- Use salted butter for a balanced salty-sweet version.
- Makes enough to frost one 9-inch layer cake or about 12 cupcakes.