Rich Caramel Buttercream Frosting
This luscious caramel buttercream frosting brings a sweet, buttery richness to any dessert, with its deep caramelized flavor that perfectly complements apple cake, carrot cake, and beyond. Its creamy texture smoothly spreads over your favorite baked goods, offering a delightful twist from traditional frostings. While the recipe yields a generous amount, it's perfect for large cakes or multiple batches of cupcakes.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (unsalted, cubed)
milk
1/4 cup (whole or 2%)
brown sugar
1 cup (packed)
powdered sugar
2 to 2 1/2 cups (sifted)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine butter, milk, and brown sugar. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
2
Increase the heat to medium and allow the mixture to cook without stirring for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the center becomes bubbly and reaches an amber color, indicating caramelization.
3
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the caramel mixture cool completely to room temperature.
4
Once cooled, gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for spreading or piping.
5
Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a gentle stir.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rich Caramel Buttercream Frosting?
It is a luscious, sweet, and buttery frosting with a deep caramelized flavor that is perfect for various baked goods.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires unsalted butter, milk, packed brown sugar, and sifted powdered sugar.
How much butter is used in the frosting?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, cubed.
What type of milk should I use?
You should use 1/4 cup of whole or 2% milk.
How much brown sugar is required?
You will need 1 cup of packed brown sugar.
How much powdered sugar should I have on hand?
You will need between 2 to 2 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar.
What is the first step in making the caramel base?
Combine butter, milk, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan and melt over low heat while stirring constantly.
How long does the caramel mixture need to cook on medium heat?
Allow the mixture to cook without stirring for 3 to 5 minutes.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The center should become bubbly and the mixture should reach an amber color.
Should I stir the mixture while it boils?
No, once you increase the heat to medium, you should allow it to cook without stirring.
Does the caramel need to cool before adding sugar?
Yes, the saucepan must be removed from heat and the mixture must cool completely to room temperature.
How do I incorporate the powdered sugar?
Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use this frosting for piping?
Yes, by adjusting the powdered sugar amount, you can achieve a consistency suitable for piping.
How should I store leftover frosting?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long does this frosting last in the refrigerator?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
What should I do before using refrigerated frosting?
Let it come to room temperature and give it a gentle stir before applying to cakes.
What types of cakes pair best with caramel frosting?
It perfectly complements apple cake, carrot cake, and other spiced desserts.
Is the texture of the frosting smooth?
Yes, it has a creamy texture that spreads smoothly over baked goods.
Can I use this for cupcakes?
Yes, the recipe yields a generous amount perfect for multiple batches of cupcakes.
Why is the powdered sugar sifted?
Sifting prevents lumps and ensures the frosting has a smooth, professional finish.
What happens if I don't let the caramel cool?
If the caramel is too hot, it will melt the powdered sugar and result in a runny frosting.
Does this frosting have a deep flavor?
Yes, the cooking process provides a deep caramelized flavor compared to standard buttercreams.
Is this recipe suitable for large cakes?
Yes, it produces enough frosting to cover large cakes.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is calculated for approximately 6 servings.
What color should the finished caramel look like?
The base mixture should look amber before it is cooled and mixed with sugar.
Can I use 1% milk?
The recipe recommends whole or 2% for the best richness, but 1% may work with a slightly different texture.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
Yes, though dark brown sugar will provide a slightly deeper molasses flavor.
What tool is best for adding sugar?
A whisk is recommended for gradually incorporating the sugar and maintaining a smooth texture.
Is this frosting very sweet?
Yes, the combination of brown sugar and powdered sugar creates a sweet, rich treat.
Does it spread easily?
Yes, its creamy texture is designed to spread smoothly over your favorite cakes.