Salted Caramel Frosting

Salted caramel frosting is the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making it an irresistible topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. This homemade frosting combines dark brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream to create a smooth, decadent texture. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your desserts, this easy recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 cup butter
1/3 cup heavy cream
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Bring brown sugar and butter to a rolling boil in a 3 1/2-quart saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly.
Step 2: Stir in heavy cream and return to a boil, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Pour the mixture into the bowl of a heavy-duty electric stand mixer.
Step 4: Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract at medium speed using a whisk attachment. Continue beating for 7 to 10 minutes or until thickened. Use immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving: This salted caramel frosting is best used immediately while it’s warm and spreadable. It pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, spice cakes, and even cookies. If it begins to thicken too much before use, gently reheat it in short bursts in the microwave or stir it over low heat until smooth.

Storage: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using refrigerated frosting, let it come to room temperature and rewhip it if necessary for a smooth texture. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and rewhip before spreading.

Variations

1. Cream Cheese Salted Caramel Frosting – Add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese when beating in the powdered sugar for a tangy twist that balances the caramel’s sweetness.

2. Espresso Salted Caramel Frosting – Dissolve 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder in the heavy cream before adding it to the mixture for a rich coffee flavor that enhances the caramel.

3. Chocolate Salted Caramel Frosting – Beat in 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the powdered sugar to create a deep, chocolate-infused caramel frosting.

4. Bourbon Salted Caramel Frosting – Stir in 1 tablespoon of bourbon after adding the vanilla for a smooth, boozy depth that pairs beautifully with chocolate or spice cakes.

5. Maple Salted Caramel Frosting – Replace half of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich autumn-inspired caramel flavor.

6. Nutty Salted Caramel Frosting – Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

7. Coconut Salted Caramel Frosting – Replace the heavy cream with canned coconut milk and add 1/2 teaspoon of coconut extract for a tropical twist.

8. Spiced Salted Caramel Frosting – Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced version that pairs well with fall desserts.

Each of these variations can elevate your desserts with unique flavors while maintaining the luscious, creamy texture of the original salted caramel frosting.

FAQs

1. Can I make salted caramel frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature and rewhip before using.

2. Why is my frosting grainy?
Grainy texture happens if the brown sugar does not dissolve completely. Make sure to whisk constantly while boiling and allow the sugar to fully melt before adding the cream.

3. How can I fix frosting that’s too thick?
If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream at a time and beat until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, but dark brown sugar gives a deeper caramel flavor. If using light brown sugar, consider adding a teaspoon of molasses for richness.

5. What’s the best way to reheat salted caramel frosting?
If the frosting has thickened too much, microwave it in short 5-10 second bursts, stirring in between, until it’s spreadable again.

6. Can I pipe this frosting onto cupcakes?
Yes, but it’s best used immediately while still warm and smooth. If it thickens too much for piping, rewhip it or slightly warm it before use.

7. How can I make this frosting less sweet?
Reduce the powdered sugar by 1/2 cup and add an extra pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.

8. What desserts pair best with salted caramel frosting?
This frosting goes great with chocolate cake, vanilla cupcakes, apple spice cake, brownies, or cinnamon rolls.

9. Can I freeze salted caramel frosting?
Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature and rewhip before using.

10. Can I make this frosting without a stand mixer?
Yes, but using a stand mixer makes it easier. A hand mixer can also work, just beat for the full 7-10 minutes to achieve the right consistency.

This salted caramel frosting adds a luxurious touch to any dessert, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. Its smooth, creamy texture pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, or spice cakes. Try this recipe for your next baking project and enjoy the rich, buttery flavor that will have everyone asking for more.

Print