Salted Caramel Frosting is a luxurious and decadent topping that transforms any cake or cupcake into a show-stopping dessert. This frosting combines the deep, rich flavors of caramel with a hint of sea salt, perfectly balancing sweetness with a touch of savory. My first encounter with salted caramel was in a quaint bakery in Paris, where the combination of the two flavors created an unforgettable experience. This frosting brings that same indulgence to your homemade treats, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to indulge in something sweet, this Salted Caramel Frosting will elevate your desserts to new heights.
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons water
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus extra for garnishing
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Caramel
Dissolve the Sugar:
In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 4 tablespoons of water.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Boil the Mixture:
Increase the heat to high and let the sugar-water mixture boil. Do not stir the mixture; instead, gently swirl the pan to ensure even cooking.
Continue boiling until the mixture turns a deep amber color. This should take about 8-10 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 2: Incorporate the Cream
Add the Heavy Cream:
Once the caramel reaches the desired color, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Carefully whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so take care to avoid splatters.
Continue whisking until the caramel is smooth.
Add Vanilla and Salt:
Stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
Blend in 1/2 teaspoon of flaky sea salt.
Transfer the caramel to a bowl and let it cool completely. This can take about 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Base
Whip the Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup (2 sticks) of room temperature unsalted butter.
Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium-high speed until it is creamy and smooth. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar to the whipped butter.
Beat on low speed to incorporate the sugar, then increase the speed to medium-high and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. This should take an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Merge the Caramel
Combine Caramel and Butter Mixture:
Once the caramel has cooled completely, gradually add it to the butter mixture.
Beat on medium-high speed until the caramel is fully incorporated and the frosting is light and airy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Adjust the Consistency:
If the frosting is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, then beat again to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Frost the Cake or Cupcakes:
Use a spatula or a piping bag to apply the Salted Caramel Frosting to your cake or cupcakes.
Smooth the frosting evenly over the surface.
Garnish:
Garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added texture and flavor.
Optional: Add decorative touches such as dried edible flowers for an elegant finish.
Variations and Substitutions
A Hint of Bourbon:
For an adult twist, incorporate a tablespoon of bourbon into the caramel before it cools. This adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the caramel.
Sweet Adjustments:
If you prefer a less salty caramel, reduce the sea salt to just a pinch for a classic caramel flavor.
Storage Solutions:
Excess frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the frosting for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using and re-whip if necessary.
Healthier Options:
Use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Substitute dairy-free butter and coconut cream for a vegan version of the frosting.
Decorative Touches:
Embellish your frosted delights with dried edible flowers for an elegant, springtime look.
Add a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top for a more indulgent presentation.
Conclusion
This Salted Caramel Frosting is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the simple joys of baking. The deep, rich caramel paired with the delicate hint of sea salt creates a harmonious balance that enhances any dessert. The process of making this frosting is straightforward, yet the result is a luxurious topping that adds a touch of sophistication to cakes and cupcakes. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to indulge your sweet tooth, this frosting is sure to impress. Enjoy crafting this exquisite topping and watch as it becomes a cherished part of your culinary legacy. Each bite is a reminder of the sweet, simple pleasures that make life truly beautiful.
