Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

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There are frostings that simply coat a cake, and then there are frostings that steal the show. Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is unapologetically the latter. Rich, creamy, and indulgently sweet with that perfect whisper of salt, this buttercream isn’t just a topping—it’s a centerpiece.

The texture is luxuriously silky, but it’s the flavor that truly stands out. The deep, buttery caramel is balanced by a hint of salt, cutting through the sweetness in just the right way. Whether you’re icing a layered chocolate cake, swirling it onto cupcakes, or using it to sandwich cookies, this frosting brings a level of decadence that feels celebratory.

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

This frosting strikes a flawless balance between sweet and salty, making it universally irresistible. The homemade caramel base creates depth you can’t find in store-bought frostings. It spreads beautifully, pipes like a dream, and sets up just firm enough without crusting. Plus, it transforms even the simplest cake into a bakery-worthy dessert.

What Kind of Caramel Should I Use?

Homemade caramel is the star here, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use a high-quality store-bought version. Just make sure it’s a true caramel sauce, not a topping syrup, so it has that thick, rich consistency. That said, making caramel from scratch really elevates the flavor, giving the buttercream a warm, deep toffee-like taste that can’t be faked.

Ingredients for the Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

The magic of this frosting lies in a few key ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Each one plays an important role in the texture and flavor.

• Granulated Sugar: For creating the caramel base, it brings that deep sweetness and golden color.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps turn the sugar into a pourable, velvety caramel.
• Unsalted Butter: Forms the body of the buttercream, giving it that lush, spreadable texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting without adding graininess.
• Salt: A pinch brings out the depth of the caramel and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor profile.

How To Make the Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Make the Caramel

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly. It will clump first, then gradually melt into a deep amber liquid. Be patient and keep stirring so it doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Add the Cream

Carefully and slowly pour in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble up violently, so step back as you stir it in. Continue stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Cool the Caramel

Remove the pan from heat and stir in a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool completely to room temperature before using it in the frosting.

Step 4: Beat the Butter

In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter until pale and fluffy—this takes about 3-4 minutes. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to a smooth buttercream.

Step 5: Add the Caramel

Once the caramel is fully cooled, slowly beat it into the whipped butter.

Step 6: Finish with Powdered Sugar

Add the powdered sugar gradually, beating on low until incorporated, then on high until the frosting is light and fluffy. If it’s too soft, chill for 15 minutes before piping or spreading.

Serving and Storing Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

This recipe yields enough frosting to generously frost 12 cupcakes or a 9-inch double-layer cake. It’s also perfect for filling macarons or topping brownies. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip briefly before using. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the fridge and whip again.

What to Serve With Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting?

Chocolate Layer Cake

The bittersweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the buttery caramel notes.

Apple Spice Cupcakes

Bring out the fall flavors by topping spiced cupcakes with this luxurious frosting.

Brownie Bites

Pipe a swirl on top of bite-sized brownies for an irresistible dessert platter.

Banana Cake

The sweetness of banana cake gets a rich upgrade with this creamy, salty frosting.

Coffee-Flavored Desserts

Add this frosting to coffee cupcakes or mocha cakes to highlight the caramel undertones.

Snickerdoodle Cookies

Use the frosting as a filling for snickerdoodle sandwich cookies for a cinnamon-caramel combo.

Pumpkin Bread

Spread a thick layer over slices of pumpkin bread for a decadent twist.

Vanilla Cupcakes

Even the most basic vanilla cupcake becomes an elegant treat with this buttercream.

Want More Frosting Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting, you’ll definitely want to try these Luna Meals favorites:

• The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Icing Recipe for silky sweetness that melts into warm rolls.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls featuring creamy, fruity fillings.
• Southern Hummingbird Cake with its tangy pineapple and banana base that loves a good frosting.
• Dr. Pepper Brownies that could only get better with a caramel swirl.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go the extra mile with homemade caramel? Did you add a touch of bourbon for depth?

I love seeing how you personalize these recipes. Don’t be shy—ask questions or share your twist.

Explore beautifully curated dessert inspiration and more sweet creations on Luna Meals on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting brings elegance and indulgence to whatever it touches. It’s a recipe worth mastering and keeping in your back pocket for any occasion where flavor matters. Whether you spread, swirl, or pipe it, the balance of salt and sweetness will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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