Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting
This Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and salty. Using salted caramel flavoring extract gives you a consistent caramel flavor, better control over sweetness, and a buttercream that’s ideal for piping and decorating. This recipe is perfect for cupcakes, layer cakes, fillings, and detailed buttercream work.
Ingredients
-200g unsalted butter, softened
-230-260 icing sugar, sifted
-1 ½ -2 tsp salted caramel flavoring extract
-1-2 tbsp whipping cream or milk (adjust as needed)
-Pinch of salt (optional, adjust to taste)
-Optional: tiny drop of brown food coloring (for deeper caramel color)
How to Make Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting
1. Cream the butter
Beat the softened butter until pale, light, and creamy.
2. Add icing sugar
Gradually add sifted icing sugar and beat until smooth and fluffy.
3. Add salted caramel flavoring extract
Add the salted caramel flavoring extract and mix until fully combined.
4. Adjust consistency
Add whipping cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired texture.
5. Taste and finish
Add a pinch of salt if needed. Beat again until smooth and fluffy.
Your salted caramel buttercream is now ready to use!
Consistency & Decorating Tips
• For piping: Use less cream for a firmer buttercream
• For spreading: Add slightly more cream for a softer finish
• For hot weather: Chill for 10-15 minutes before piping
Best Cake Pairings
This buttercream pairs beautifully with:
• Vanilla cake
• Chocolate cake
• Banana cake
• Coffee or mocha cake
• Apple or cinnamon cake
FAQ
1. Why use salted caramel flavoring extract instead of caramel sauce?
Flavoring extract gives a stronger, more consistent flavor without changing the buttercream’s texture or making it too soft.
2. How much salted caramel extract should I use?
Start with 1 ½ teaspoons and adjust to taste.
3. My buttercream is pale, how do I make it more caramel-colored?
Salted caramel extract is usually colorless. Add a tiny drop of brown or caramel food coloring if desired.
4. Is this buttercream suitable for piping?
Yes! It’s actually more stable than caramel-sauce buttercream and holds shapes very well.
5. Can I make this buttercream less sweet?
Reduce the icing sugar slightly and add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.