Caramel Frosting

With this delicious recipe for Caramel Frosting, welcome to the realm of decadence! Enjoy this decadent and smooth topping as a treat on its own or as a wonderful match for your favorite cakes or cupcakes. Prepare to increase the sweetness of your delicacies to a whole new degree!

Tasting Notes

Expect a heavenly combination of buttery caramel flavor with a velvety smooth texture. This frosting strikes the ideal balance between sweetness and richness, making it an irresistible addition to any baked delight.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Kitchen Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Sifter
• Rubber spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves, and the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly.
   • Slowly add the milk while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then remove it from heat.
2. Cool the Caramel Sauce:
   • Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature. This step is crucial to avoid melting the butter in the next stage.
3. Whip the Caramel and Add Vanilla:
   • Using an electric mixer, beat the cooled caramel sauce until it lightens in color and thickens slightly.
   • Incorporate the vanilla extract and continue beating until well combined.
4. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar:
   • Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while beating on low speed. Ensure each addition is fully incorporated before adding more.
5. Adjust Consistency:
   • If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
6. Frost Your Delights:
   • Once the caramel frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency, generously frost your cakes or cupcakes.

Pro Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk are at room temperature for a smoother and more consistent texture.
• Sifted Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar eliminates lumps, resulting in a silky-smooth frosting.
• Patience is Key: Let the caramel sauce cool adequately before whipping it into the frosting. This prevents a greasy texture.

Variations

• Salted Caramel Frosting: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a delightful sweet and salty twist.
• Chocolate Caramel Frosting: Mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder with the powdered sugar for a luscious chocolate-caramel fusion.

FAQs