Nutty Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
This luxurious Nutty Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is a heavenly blend of rich flavors that elevate any dessert. Perfectly paired with banana cake, pumpkin spice cake, carrot cake, or even swirled atop warm cinnamon rolls, it adds a distinctive nutty depth to your treats. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of ground cinnamon. Indulge your taste buds with this creamy, dreamy frosting that is sure to impress!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
3/4 cup (divided (1 1/2 sticks))
cream cheese
8 ounces (room temperature)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
powdered sugar
3 1/2 - 4 cups (sifted to avoid lumps)
heavy cream
1-3 tablespoons (optional for thinning)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it becomes golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This process may take about 15-20 minutes, so watch it closely.
2
While the butter is browning, cube the remaining 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of butter and place it in a mixing bowl along with the softened cream cheese. Pour the hot browned butter over the top and let it sit for about 3 minutes to soften the cream cheese further.
3
Add the vanilla extract or the seeds from the vanilla bean to the mixture. Using an electric mixer, blend the ingredients on medium speed until the butter and cream cheese are combined and smooth.
4
Gradually incorporate the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If it feels too thick, drizzle in 1-3 tablespoons of heavy cream until it is smooth and spreadable.
5
If the frosting seems too soft for decorating, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up before using.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nutty Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting?
It is a luxurious, creamy frosting made by blending rich browned butter with softened cream cheese and powdered sugar for a deep, nutty flavor profile.
How long does it take to brown the butter?
The process typically takes about 15-20 minutes over medium heat until the butter becomes golden brown and fragrant.
How much butter is needed in total for this recipe?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of butter, which is equivalent to 1 and 1/2 sticks.
Is the butter added all at once?
No, the butter is divided: 1/2 cup is browned in a saucepan, while the remaining 1/4 cup is cubed and mixed in later.
What temperature should the cream cheese be?
The cream cheese should be at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly without lumps.
Can I use vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract?
Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with the seeds scraped from one split vanilla bean.
Why should I sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting the powdered sugar is recommended to avoid lumps and ensure a perfectly smooth frosting consistency.
How much powdered sugar should I use?
You should use between 3 1/2 to 4 cups of sifted powdered sugar, depending on your desired consistency.
What is the purpose of adding heavy cream?
Heavy cream is an optional ingredient used to thin the frosting if it becomes too thick or to make it more spreadable.
How do I know when the butter is browned?
The butter is ready when it develops a golden brown color and emits a distinct nutty aroma.
Can I add extra spices to this frosting?
Yes, adding a dash of ground cinnamon is suggested for an extra flavor boost that complements the nutty butter.
Which cakes pair best with this frosting?
This frosting pairs exceptionally well with banana cake, pumpkin spice cake, and carrot cake.
Can I use this frosting on cinnamon rolls?
Yes, it is a delicious topping for warm cinnamon rolls, adding a rich depth of flavor.
How long should the hot browned butter sit with the cream cheese?
Let the hot browned butter sit over the cubed butter and cream cheese for about 3 minutes to help soften the mixture.
What type of mixer should I use?
An electric mixer is recommended to blend the ingredients on medium speed until smooth.
What should I do if the frosting is too soft for piping?
If the frosting is too soft, place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up before use.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of softened cream cheese.
Should I stir the butter while it is browning?
Yes, you should stir the butter occasionally to prevent it from burning as it cooks.
What should I do if the frosting is too thick?
You can drizzle in 1 to 3 tablespoons of heavy cream until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Is this frosting suitable for decorating?
Yes, once chilled to the proper firmness, it is excellent for decorating various desserts.
What gives this frosting its 'nutty' name?
The name comes from the rich, nutty aroma and taste produced by browning the butter before mixing it.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 primary ingredients: butter, cream cheese, vanilla, powdered sugar, and optional heavy cream.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it in advance; just be sure to refrigerate it and whip it slightly before use if it becomes too firm.
How do I prevent the butter from burning?
Watch the butter closely during the last few minutes of browning and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns golden brown.
Can I use this for a layer cake?
Absolutely, its rich texture and flavor make it a perfect filling and frosting for layer cakes.
What speed should the mixer be on?
The recipe recommends using medium speed to combine the butter and cream cheese.
Is the vanilla extract added before or after the sugar?
The vanilla extract is added and blended with the butter and cream cheese before the powdered sugar is incorporated.
Is this frosting gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this frosting is naturally gluten-free.
How much heavy cream is optional?
You can add 1 to 3 tablespoons of heavy cream depending on the consistency you prefer.
Does this frosting require refrigeration?
Yes, because it contains cream cheese and butter, the frosting and any cake frosted with it should be kept refrigerated.