Easy Salted Caramel Frosting for Cakes & Cupcakes

Easy Salted Caramel Frosting for Cakes & Cupcakes

Dolce Flav

Servings

12

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

5 minutes

Category

Caramel Extract Water Soluble

This easy salted caramel frosting is rich, fluffy, and perfectly sweet with a buttery caramel depth that comes from homemade caramel and a boost of caramel extract. Start by melting butter and caramel together, then beat it into powdered sugar with a splash of cream to achieve a smooth, pipeable consistency. The result is a creamy, bakery-style salted caramel buttercream that pairs beautifully with vanilla cakes, chocolate cupcakes, apple spice cakes, brownies, and more. It’s quick to make, spreads easily, and elevates any dessert with a sweet-salted caramel finish.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 teaspoon caramel extract
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, as needed
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

Directions

  1. Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

  2. Add Caramel Sauce: Pour in the caramel sauce and beat until well incorporated and silky.

  3. Add the Extracts: Mix in caramel extract and vanilla extract to enhance the caramel depth.

  4. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, beating well between additions.

  5. Adjust the Consistency: Add 2–3 tablespoons of cream or milk until the frosting becomes smooth, fluffy, and easily spreadable.

  6. Finish with Salt: Beat in the sea salt to create the perfect salted caramel flavor profile.

  7. Frost and Serve: Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or chill for 10 minutes to firm for piping.