Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This frosting is incredibly easy to make and adds a decadent touch to any dessert. With the perfect balance of sweetness and a slight hint of caramel, it complements a wide range of cakes and cupcakes. The best part? It’s made in just 15 minutes and will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
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1 cup brown sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter
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¼ cup milk
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2 to 3 cups powdered sugar (adjust for consistency)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
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Stir in the brown sugar and allow it to dissolve completely.
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Slowly add the milk while stirring, and then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
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Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly until it’s warm to the touch.
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Whisk in 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add more powdered sugar if needed to achieve the desired thickness.
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Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Use the frosting immediately while it’s still spreadable.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 24
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover frosting in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using again, warm it up slightly and whisk it until smooth.
FAQs
1. Why does my frosting get grainy sometimes?
Make sure the brown sugar is fully dissolved in the butter. Stir over low heat until no sugar crystals remain.
2. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat slightly before using.
3. Why did my frosting get too hard?
It naturally firms up as it cools. If it becomes too firm, gently warm it and add a splash of milk to return it to a spreadable consistency.
4. Can I freeze this frosting?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and rewarm before use.
5. How many cupcakes will this frosting cover?
This recipe makes enough frosting to generously cover 24 cupcakes or one 9-inch layer cake.
6. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar if you prefer a milder caramel flavor.
7. Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives.
8. How thick should the frosting be?
The consistency can vary based on your preference. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, add a bit more milk.
9. Can I add flavorings to the frosting?
You can experiment by adding a pinch of salt for salted caramel flavor or a bit of cinnamon for a warm twist.
10. How should I store the frosting?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before use if it becomes too thick.
Conclusion
This brown sugar caramel frosting is a must-try for any dessert lover. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, offering a deep caramel flavor that will elevate any cake or cupcake. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or just want to treat yourself, this frosting is sure to impress!
Brown Sugar Caramel Frosting Recipe
This rich and buttery brown sugar caramel frosting adds a decadent touch to any dessert. With a smooth, creamy texture and a deep caramel flavor, it’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or even as a filling. Easy to make in just 15 minutes, this frosting is sure to become a favorite for all your sweet treats!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost 24 cupcakes or one 9-inch layer cake
- Category: Frosting, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup milk
2 to 3 cups powdered sugar (adjust for consistency)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and allow it to dissolve completely.
Slowly add the milk while stirring, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly until it’s warm to the touch.
Whisk in 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add more powdered sugar if needed to achieve the desired thickness.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Use the frosting immediately while it’s still spreadable.
Instructions
-
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
-
Stir in the brown sugar and allow it to dissolve completely.
-
Slowly add the milk while stirring, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
-
Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
-
Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly until it’s warm to the touch.
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Whisk in 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add more powdered sugar if needed to achieve the desired thickness.
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Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Use the frosting immediately while it’s still spreadable.
Notes
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Make sure the brown sugar dissolves completely in the butter to avoid any graininess.
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If the frosting becomes too firm as it cools, gently warm it and add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
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You can make this frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and whisk before using.