Decadent Buttery Caramel Frosting
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of this Decadent Buttery Caramel Frosting, a cherished recipe from my great aunt who always topped her famous chocolate zucchini cake with it. This luscious frosting is crafted from simple ingredients yet delivers an irresistible flavor profile that perfectly complements not only chocolate treats but also vanilla cakes and cookies. With its smooth texture and rich caramel tones, this frosting will elevate any dessert into an extraordinary experience. It's the ultimate finishing touch for your baked goods, making every bite a delightful explosion of buttery sweetness.
4
Servings
300
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
1/2 cup (unsalted, at room temperature)
Brown Sugar
1 cup (packed)
Milk
1/4 cup (whole or 2%)
Powdered Sugar
2 cups (sifted)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted and bubbly.
2
Stir in the packed brown sugar and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue to boil for 2 minutes while stirring constantly to ensure it doesn't scorch.
3
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the milk. Return to heat briefly, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle boil once more, then remove from heat and let cool for about 10-15 minutes.
4
Transfer the cooled mixture to a mixing bowl. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, incorporating it a little at a time.
5
Using an electric mixer, beat the frosting on medium speed until creamy and smooth. Adjust consistency with additional powdered sugar if necessary, adding more for a thicker frosting or a splash of milk for a thinner consistency.
Nutrition Information
16.5g
Fat
35g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Buttery Caramel Frosting?
It is a rich, creamy frosting with deep caramel tones, originally used by the creator's great aunt for chocolate zucchini cake.
What are the main ingredients for this frosting?
The main ingredients are butter, packed brown sugar, milk, and sifted powdered sugar.
How do I start making the frosting?
Begin by melting 1/2 cup of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it is fully melted and bubbly.
How long should I boil the butter and sugar mixture?
Once the brown sugar is stirred in, bring it to a gentle boil and continue boiling for 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
The recipe suggests unsalted butter at room temperature, but salted butter can be used if you prefer a salted caramel flavor profile.
What type of milk is best for this frosting?
Whole or 2% milk is recommended for the best consistency and richness.
Is it necessary to sift the powdered sugar?
Yes, sifting the powdered sugar ensures the frosting has a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
How long should the caramel mixture cool?
After the second boil, let the mixture cool for approximately 10 to 15 minutes before adding the powdered sugar.
What should I do if my frosting is too thin?
You can adjust the consistency by gradually adding more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired thickness.
What should I do if the frosting is too thick?
If the frosting becomes too thick, simply add a splash of milk and beat it until it reaches the right consistency.
Can this frosting be used on cookies?
Absolutely! This frosting is versatile and complements cookies and vanilla cakes as well as chocolate treats.
Is this frosting good for chocolate cake?
Yes, it was specifically designed to top chocolate zucchini cake and pairs perfectly with chocolate flavors.
Can I use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
No, brown sugar is essential for creating the specific caramel flavor and color of this frosting.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
What is the calorie count for a serving of this frosting?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How should I store leftover frosting?
Store any remaining frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this caramel frosting?
Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months; thaw and re-beat before using.
How do I prevent the sugar from scorching?
To prevent scorching, ensure you stir the sugar and butter mixture constantly while it is boiling.
Can I add vanilla extract to this frosting?
Yes, adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract during the mixing stage can enhance the flavor profile.
Is this a family recipe?
Yes, it is a cherished recipe handed down from the creator's great aunt.
Can I use an electric mixer?
Yes, using an electric mixer on medium speed is the best way to ensure the frosting is creamy and smooth.
How do I get a smooth texture?
Sifting the sugar and beating the mixture well after it has cooled are the keys to a smooth texture.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, substituting heavy cream for milk will result in an even richer and thicker frosting.
Why did my frosting turn out grainy?
Graininess usually occurs if the sugar wasn't boiled long enough to dissolve or if the mixture didn't cool sufficiently before adding powdered sugar.
Is this frosting gluten-free?
The ingredients listed (butter, sugar, milk) are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific brands for cross-contamination.
How much fat is in one serving?
There is approximately 16.5g of fat per serving.
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?
Yes, dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper, more intense molasses and caramel flavor.
Will non-dairy milk work in this recipe?
You can use non-dairy milk, though it may slightly alter the richness and final consistency.
Is this frosting suitable for a layer cake?
Yes, but you may need to add extra powdered sugar to make it stiff enough to support multiple layers.
How long does it take to prepare this frosting?
The process takes about 20-25 minutes, including the boiling stages and the 10-15 minute cooling period.