Salted Caramel Frosting
Imagine this: a frosting so rich and indulgent, it might just steal the spotlight from your cake. This Salted Caramel Frosting is a luscious blend of sweet and salty, perfect for those who love a little decadence on their desserts. Whether you’re topping cupcakes or layering a cake, this frosting is sure to impress and satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Salted Caramel Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s smooth, creamy, and has the perfect balance of sweet caramel and a hint of salt. Plus, it’s easy to make and pairs well with a variety of flavors, from chocolate to vanilla. If you’ve ever found caramel frosting too dense, this updated version is here to change your mind with its silky texture.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Heat-proof mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer with whisk attachment
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick or 115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)
- 5–6 Tablespoons heavy cream, divided*
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 and 1/2 cups (240-300g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- Optional garnish: salted caramel sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add brown sugar and 2 Tablespoons of heavy cream. Whisk constantly until sugar is dissolved. Add salt. Allow to bubble for about 2 minutes, whisking every 30 seconds or so. Remove from heat, pour into a heat-proof mixing bowl, and allow to cool for about 30 minutes.
- With a hand or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat in 2 cups confectioners’ sugar and 3 more Tablespoons of heavy cream. Slowly add 1/2 cup more confectioners’ sugar until you reach the desired consistency. Add 1 more Tablespoon heavy cream if you find the frosting too thick.
- Frost cake or cupcakes and garnish with salted caramel sauce, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is completely melted and sugar is fully dissolved for a smooth caramel base.
- Allow the caramel mixture to cool before mixing with sugar to prevent a runny frosting.
- Adjust the amount of confectioners’ sugar to reach your preferred consistency.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a deeper caramel flavor, try using dark brown sugar. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract for extra depth. If you prefer a thicker frosting, reduce the amount of heavy cream.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of Salted Caramel Frosting contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this frosting a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before using.
What desserts pair well with this frosting?
This frosting is perfect for chocolate or vanilla cakes, cupcakes, or even as a filling for macarons.
How do I store leftover frosting?
Keep any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using again.
Conclusion
Now that you have this delightful Salted Caramel Frosting recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this frosting will elevate your desserts to new heights. Give it a try and be sure to share your delicious creations with friends and family. We’d love to hear about your experience, so leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out!
