This homemade caramel frosting recipe by Sugar Spun Run is perfect for your Fall recipes! It is great for piping and decorating your homemade cakes and cupcakes. The frosting has a perfectly thick texture and a delicious buttery and sweet taste that you will absolutely love.
RELATED: How to Make the Best Salted Caramels
Sugar Spun Run will also show you how to make homemade caramel sauce for the caramel frosting. If you prefer sea salt caramel, simply sprinkle fine sea salt on top. You can make the caramel sauce up to three days in advance – just store it in the fridge in an air-tight container. If caramel is your favorite Fall flavor, be sure to save this recipe.
Here’s a recipe you might want to try: Caramel Apple Pie Bombs
Easy Caramel Frosting Ingredients
For the caramel sauce:
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cut into 8 pieces)
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of whole milk
- 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
For the frosting:
- 3/4 cup of unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- fine sea salt
How to Make Caramel Frosting
Step 1:
Place a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, and add brown sugar, butter, cream, milk, corn syrup, and salt. Mix to combine. Cook while stirring frequently until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved.
Step 2:
Turn the heat to medium and bring it to a full boil, while stirring constantly.
Step 3:
Once it reaches a full boil, set a timer for 44 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally while it cooks. Alternatively, you can use a candy thermometer and cook until the sauce reaches 320F.
Step 4:
Turn off the heat and transfer to a large heatproof bowl. Allow it to cool completely before doing the next step.
Step 5:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and beat until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Turn the speed to low, then gradually add about half of the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Next, drizzle in caramel and stir until well combined, then gradually add the remaining powdered sugar.
Step 6:
Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 7:
Spread the frosting or pipe over the cake or cupcakes. Sprinkle with fine sea salt if preferred.