Description
Sweet caramel frosting promises pure indulgence for dessert enthusiasts seeking rich, velvety luxury. Smooth layers of golden caramel glaze elevate cakes and cupcakes, delivering delightful comfort you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (for extra smoothness)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent scorching.
- Add brown sugar to the melted butter and whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Carefully pour in whole milk while stirring constantly, creating a rich caramel base that will simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the caramel mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly for 5-7 minutes, preventing potential curdling when adding powdered sugar.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar into the warm caramel, whisking thoroughly to eliminate any potential lumps and create a silky consistency.
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt, blending until the frosting achieves a glossy, even texture.
- If desired, fold in heavy cream to enhance the frosting’s smoothness and create a more luxurious mouthfeel.
- Let the frosting cool and thicken for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, occasionally stirring to maintain a spreadable consistency.
- Once cooled, use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Prevent butter from burning by stirring continuously and using medium heat, which helps achieve a smooth caramel base without scorching.
- Whisk brown sugar vigorously to dissolve completely, ensuring a lump-free and glossy caramel mixture that develops rich, deep flavors.
- Add powdered sugar gradually to control thickness and prevent clumping, creating a silky-smooth frosting that spreads effortlessly on baked goods.
- Experiment with heavy cream or milk alternatives to adjust consistency and accommodate dietary preferences like lactose-free or vegan requirements.
- Prep Time: 5-7 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg