Description

This salted caramel buttercream frosting is rich, fluffy, and packed with buttery caramel flavor in every bite. It is an easy recipe for cakes, cupcakes, and dessert bars, making it one of those go-to food ideas when you need a quick frosting that feels special for birthday cakes, holiday baking, or simple homemade dessert ideas.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup thick salted caramel sauce

2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Add the softened butter to a large mixing bowl and beat until smooth, creamy, and pale in color.

2. Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition until fully combined.

3. Pour in the salted caramel sauce and beat until the frosting is smooth and evenly caramel-colored.

4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and the vanilla extract, then beat until light and fluffy.

5. Taste the frosting and mix in the sea salt. Add the final tablespoon of cream only if you want a softer texture for spreading or piping.

6. Use immediately on completely cooled cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or bars.

Notes

Use softened butter, not melted butter, so the frosting stays fluffy and stable.

Choose a thick caramel sauce because a thin sauce can make the buttercream too loose.

If the frosting feels too soft, add a little more powdered sugar. If it feels too thick, add cream a teaspoon at a time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Frosting
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 221
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 95mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 38mg

Keywords: salted caramel buttercream frosting, caramel frosting, easy frosting recipe, cupcake frosting, cake frosting, dessert ideas, easy recipe, homemade frosting