Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or fleur de sel
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cream the butter: Beat softened unsalted butter in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until well combined.
- Add vanilla and milk: Mix in vanilla extract; add heavy cream or milk a tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Season with salt (optional): Gently fold in a pinch of salt for enhanced flavor.
- Melt the sugar: Heat granulated sugar over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, stirring constantly until amber-colored.
- Add butter: Carefully whisk in cubed butter until fully melted and combined.
- Pour in heavy cream: Remove from heat, then slowly whisk in heavy cream until smooth and thickened.
- Add salt and vanilla: Stir in sea salt and vanilla extract; let cool slightly before using.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla to the caramel.
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for smooth buttercream mixing.
- Salted caramel thickens as it cools; rewarm gently if needed.
- Use high-quality butter for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Frosting
- Method: Mixing, Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons buttercream, 1 tablespoon caramel
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
