Pin it
My Brown Sugar Caramel Frosting recipe came from years of trying to create the perfect caramel topping that wasn't overly sweet. The combination of rich brown sugar and butter creates this incredible caramel flavor that makes everything it touches taste amazing. It's become my go-to frosting that friends and family constantly request.
What Makes This Frosting Special
I love how quickly this frosting comes together while still tasting like you spent hours making it. The deep caramel notes and silky texture transform even the simplest dessert into something extraordinary. Plus it's so versatile you can adjust the thickness to use it on anything from layer cakes to cinnamon rolls.
Everything You Need
- Brown Sugar: This gives us that amazing caramel flavor we're looking for.
- Butter: I always use unsalted so we can control the flavor.
- Milk: Whole milk makes it extra creamy but any milk works great.
- Powdered Sugar: Add more or less to get your perfect consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash takes the flavor to another level.
Let's Make Some Magic
- Start the Caramel:
- Melt your butter in a pan over low heat then stir in that brown sugar until it's all dissolved. Keep the heat low we don't want it to burn.
- Add Your Milk:
- Pour the milk in slowly while stirring then let it come to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Let it Bubble:
- Give it about 2-3 minutes to bubble away then take it off the heat and let it cool until it's just warm.
- Make it Fluffy:
- Now whisk in your powdered sugar until it's exactly how thick you want it.
- Final Touch:
- Stir in that vanilla if you're using it then frost away while it's still perfectly spreadable.
My Best Tips
- Quality Counts: Fresh butter and good brown sugar make all the difference.
- Time it Right: Have your cake or cupcakes ready this frosting sets up pretty quickly.
- Perfect Texture: Add more sugar to thicken or a splash of milk to thin it out.
- Bringing it Back: If it gets too firm just warm it up gently while stirring.
Pin it
Make it Your Own
- Sugar Choice: Dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor light brown keeps it mild.
- Keep it Fresh: Stores in the fridge for 3 days just warm it up before using.
- Stock Up: You can freeze it for a month thaw and warm when needed.
- Get Creative: Try it on everything from cakes to brownies it makes everything better.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why does my frosting get grainy sometimes?
Make sure to fully dissolve the brown sugar in the butter. Keep stirring over low heat until you can't feel any sugar crystals.
- → Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
You can make it a day ahead but you'll need to warm it slightly and beat it again for the right spreading texture.
- → Why did my frosting get too hard?
The frosting naturally firms up as it cools. If it's too firm, warm it slightly and beat in a few drops of milk until spreadable.
- → Can I freeze this frosting?
This frosting freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge then warm slightly and beat until smooth.
- → How many cupcakes will this frosting cover?
This recipe makes enough to generously frost 24 cupcakes or a 9-inch layer cake with some extra for decorating.