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Buttercream cake with toasted coconut and chocolate shavings.

Easy Caramel Buttercream Frosting

Sharon Best Profile PictureSharon Best
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 286 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup salted butter cubed
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 2 1/2 - 3 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional, for enhanced flavor

Instructions
 

  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cubed butter, and whole milk.
    Flaky pie crust ingredients with butter, sugar, and flour on a white plate.
  • Place the saucepan over low heat and stir gently until the butter melts. Continue stirring for about 1 minute to combine the ingredients well.
    Butterscotch sauce in a white saucepan on a wooden cutting board with baking ingredients and measuring tools.
  • Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it cook without stirring until it reaches 230°F on a candy thermometer, about 3–6 minutes.
    Thin Apple Caramel Pie filling in a skillet, ready to bake, with ingredients on a wooden cutting board.
  • Remove from heat and pour the caramel into a heat-safe bowl. Let it cool to room temperature, which takes about 15–30 minutes. It may look a little grainy. This is normal.
  • Transfer the cooled caramel to a large mixing bowl. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Start with 2 1/2 cups and add more if needed for a thicker consistency.
    Creamy caramel and powdered sugar in a glass mixing bowl for baking.
  • If the frosting becomes too thick or stiff, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time until smooth and spreadable.
  • If using vanilla extract, add it now and beat until fully incorporated.
  • Beat the finished frosting on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes, until light and creamy.
  • Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, or store covered in the refrigerator. Re-whip chilled frosting briefly before using.

Nutrition

Calories: 286kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 0.3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 82mg
Keyword Easy Caramel Buttercream Frosting
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