Creamy Caramel Frosting (Perfect for Cakes & Cupcakes!)
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Servings: Enough for 12 cupcakes or one 9″ cake
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
This homemade Caramel Frosting is silky, rich, and perfectly sweet—with deep caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla, chocolate, or spice cakes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Real caramel flavor (no artificial taste!)
✔️ Smooth, spreadable texture—not too stiff or runny
✔️ Easy stovetop method (no candy thermometer needed)
✔️ Versatile for cakes, cookies, or as a drizzle
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of salt (balances sweetness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Caramel Base
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Add brown sugar, stirring constantly for 2-3 mins until dissolved (don’t let it boil yet!).
2️⃣ Cook & Thicken
- Slowly pour in milk while stirring—mixture will bubble.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2-3 mins, stirring nonstop.
3️⃣ Cool Slightly
- Remove from heat and let cool 5 mins (should be warm, not hot).
4️⃣ Whip in Powdered Sugar
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat in 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add remaining sugar as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Mix in vanilla & salt.
5️⃣ Frost Immediately!
- Spread on cooled cakes/cupcakes—frosting sets as it cools. (Tip: Work quickly!)
Pro Tips for Perfect Frosting
🔸 Too thick? Add 1 tsp milk at a time.
🔸 Too thin? Mix in extra powdered sugar or chill 10 mins.
🔸 For glossy frosting, use heavy cream instead of milk.
🔸 Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 1 day or refrigerate up to 3 days (rewhip before using).
Flavor Variations
✨ Salted Caramel: Add ½ tsp flaky sea salt.
✨ Maple Caramel: Replace 2 tbsp brown sugar with maple syrup.
✨ Espresso Caramel: Stir in 1 tsp instant coffee powder.
Best Pairings
🍰 Vanilla cake (classic combo!)
🍫 Chocolate cupcakes (heavenly contrast)
🍎 Apple spice cake (fall favorite)
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Frosting is decadent, foolproof, and elevates any dessert—just like a bakery treat!
Tried it? Tag #YourRecipeName or leave a review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
