Description

This Silky Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is a decadent and smooth frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Combining creamy unsalted butter with rich salted caramel sauce and a hint of vanilla, this frosting offers a luscious balance of sweet and salty flavors. The addition of heavy cream ensures a spreadable, silky texture, while a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top adds a delightful finishing touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Buttercream Base

1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened to room temperature)
4 cups Powdered Sugar (Sifted for smooth texture)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure for best flavor)

Salted Caramel

1 cup Salted Caramel Sauce (Homemade or store-bought)

Optional & Finishing Touch

1 tablespoon Heavy Cream or Milk (Optional for adjusting consistency)
1 pinch Flaky Sea Salt (For finishing touch)

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Instructions

Prepare Butter: Ensure the unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for easy blending. This creates a smooth and creamy base for the frosting.
Sift Powdered Sugar: Sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps, ensuring the frosting will have a silky texture without graininess.
Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and pale, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating on low speed initially to prevent sugar clouds, then increasing to medium until fully incorporated and fluffy.
Add Salted Caramel and Vanilla: Pour in the salted caramel sauce and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the frosting is smooth, homogeneous, and has a rich, caramel-infused flavor.
Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add the heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time, beating between additions until the desired spreadable consistency is achieved.
Final Whip: Beat the frosting on high speed for about 1-2 minutes more to make it extra fluffy and luscious.
Apply and Garnish: Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt over the frosted desserts for a delightful salty contrast and elegant presentation.

Notes

Allow the butter to soften naturally at room temperature; avoid microwaving as it can affect texture.
Sifting powdered sugar is key for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
Use high-quality or homemade salted caramel for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of heavy cream or milk to achieve your preferred frosting consistency.
This frosting pairs beautifully with vanilla, chocolate, or pumpkin-flavored cakes.
Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before re-whipping.