This rich and creamy caramel frosting is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Made with simple ingredients, it has a buttery, caramelized flavor that elevates any dessert.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Category:Dessert
Ingredients
Scale
½ cup (1 stick / 115 g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
¼ cup (60 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar, sifted
Instructions
Melt the butter and sugar:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble.
Simmer the caramel base:
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add the milk:
Remove the pan from heat and slowly stir in the milk or heavy cream. Mix until smooth, then return to low heat and bring the mixture back to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Add vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate the powdered sugar:
Transfer the caramel mixture to a mixing bowl. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on low speed. Increase the speed to medium and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Adjust consistency if needed:
If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Frost and enjoy:
Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. The frosting will firm up as it cools.
Notes
For a deeper caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar.
Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently and whisk before use.