Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Caramel Frosting Recipe

Caramel Frosting Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet caramel frosting elevates classic desserts with rich, golden goodness. Silky smooth layers of buttery caramel create irresistible depth for you to savor and enjoy.


Ingredients

Scale

Dairy:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup whole milk

Sugar and Sweeteners:

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over moderate heat, allowing it to become completely liquid and slightly foamy.
  2. Incorporate brown sugar into the melted butter, continuously stirring with a wooden spoon to prevent scorching, and cook for approximately 2 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and develops a rich, caramel-like consistency.
  3. Carefully pour milk into the sugar mixture, gently stirring to combine, and allow the mixture to reach a soft, rolling boil before removing from heat source.
  4. Allow the caramel base to cool for 3-5 minutes, reducing temperature to prevent burning the powdered sugar when added.
  5. Gradually whisk powdered sugar into the warm caramel mixture, ensuring smooth integration and eliminating potential lumps.
  6. Blend vanilla extract into the frosting, stirring until the mixture achieves a silky, glossy texture with a uniform caramel color.
  7. Let the frosting rest for several minutes to achieve optimal spreading consistency, then apply generously to completely cooled cakes or cupcakes using an offset spatula or piping bag.

Notes

  • Brown sugar creates a deeper, richer caramel flavor compared to white sugar, enhancing the overall taste profile.
  • Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding powdered sugar to prevent graininess and ensure a silky smooth consistency.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for easier blending and a more uniform frosting texture.
  • If the frosting becomes too thick, add a tiny splash of milk to thin it out; if too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar gradually.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg