Description
This rich and creamy Caramel Frosting is the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. With a smooth, buttery texture and a deep caramel flavor, it’s an irresistible treat that will elevate any dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until the mixture begins to bubble. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly add the heavy cream to the mixture and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the caramel is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Let the caramel mixture cool for about 10 minutes, then gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Continue adding powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If the frosting becomes too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or heavy cream to thin it out.
- Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Notes
- If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it up.
- For a smoother texture, beat the frosting with a hand mixer for a minute or two after adding the powdered sugar.
- Make sure the caramel has cooled slightly before adding the powdered sugar to prevent it from becoming too runny.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before using.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg