Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed to incorporate fully.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt; increase speed and beat until well blended.
- Pour in the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The buttercream should be smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
- Adjust the sweetness and texture as needed by adding more powdered sugar or milk.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into an amber-colored liquid.
- Carefully add the cubed butter and stir vigorously until melted and glossy.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring—be cautious, as it will bubble vigorously.
- Add sea salt and continue stirring until the caramel is smooth and homogeneous.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using or storing.
- Ensure your cake or cupcakes are fully cooled for smooth decorating.
- Evenly spread the buttercream over the surface and sides using an offset spatula or piping bag.
- Drizzle the warm salted caramel generously over the decorated dessert, allowing it to cascade naturally or in a controlled pattern.
- Add decorative toppings like sea salt flakes or caramel swirls for extra visual appeal.
Notes
- Store buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-whip before use.
- Keep salted caramel in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer. Reheat gently before drizzling.
- Ensure both components are cooled before storage to prevent spoilage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Frosting
- Method: Stovetop, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15g)
- Calories: 110 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
