Description
This Caramel Frosting Recipe is rich, buttery, and deeply flavorful, offering the perfect homemade touch to any cake or cupcake. Learn how to make the ultimate caramel frosting that's smooth, easy to spread, and packed with authentic caramel flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until completely dissolved and amber in color.
- Add butter and stir until fully incorporated.
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid splattering.
- Allow the mixture to boil for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Let cool slightly, then stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- If frosting is too thick, add a splash of cream to loosen it.
Notes
- For a salted caramel frosting, increase the salt to 1/2 teaspoon and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after frosting.
- For a deeper flavor, substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar.
- Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum for a boozy twist.
- Chill slightly before piping for better structure.
