Description
This rich and creamy Caramel Frosting recipe offers a delectable blend of buttery caramel and smooth sweetness, perfect for elevating cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Made by simmering brown sugar with butter and cream to create a luscious caramel base, then blending in powdered sugar for the ideal spreadable texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar, sifted (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, ensuring it liquefies evenly without browning.
- Cook Brown Sugar Mixture: Add the packed brown sugar to the melted butter and stir continuously until the mixture starts to bubble. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring constantly to blend and thicken the caramel base.
- Add Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. Keep cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until the caramel sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove from Heat and Add Flavorings: Take the saucepan off the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and salt for added flavor balance.
- Cool Caramel Base: Allow the caramel mixture to cool for about 10 minutes to reach a safe temperature for mixing with powdered sugar.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add sifted powdered sugar in ½ cup increments, mixing thoroughly after each addition to achieve the desired frosting consistency.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting becomes too thick, thin it out with a small amount of milk or heavy cream until spreadable.
- Use Immediately: Spread the caramel frosting onto cakes, cupcakes, or cookies right after preparation for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- The frosting thickens as it cools, so adjust the consistency accordingly when mixing.
- Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before reusing.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt for a flavor twist.
