Ingredients (7)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Calories262
- Fat20.03g
- Saturated fat12.65g
- Trans fat0.7g
- Carbs21.5g
- Fiber0g
- Sugar21.2g
- Protein0.33g
- Cholesterol55.98mg
- Sodium126.19mg
- Nutritional Analysis per serving (8 servings) Powered by
Get fresh food news delivered to your inbox
Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest tips, tricks, recipes and more, sent twice a week.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Looks can be deceiving: This frosting may resemble plain old vanilla, but one bite proves it’s much more. The addition of dark, slightly bitter caramel and an extra pinch of salt lends sophistication. Top some Vanilla Bean Cupcakes with this for an adult take on a childhood favorite.
Game plan: We used this frosting immediately after making it and again after it had set up, and found we liked it better after it had cooled and hardened slightly. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can use it right away; the frosting just may not be as perky as you’d like.
This can be made ahead, tightly covered, and refrigerated—it will last up to 7 days. Let it come to room temperature before using. One batch will frost 24 cupcakes.
Instructions
- 1Briefly stir together granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Continue cooking, without stirring, until mixture turns dark amber in color, about 6 to 7 minutes.
- 2Remove from heat and slowly add in cream and vanilla, stirring with a wooden spoon until completely smooth. Set aside until cool to the touch, about 25 minutes.
- 3Combine butter and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and beat on medium-high speed until light in color and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to low, add powdered sugar, and mix until completely incorporated.
- 4Turn mixer off and scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add caramel. Beat frosting on medium-high speed until airy and thoroughly mixed, about 2 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until stiff, about 45 minutes, before using.
Recommended from Chowhound
Guides
How to Stick to Healthy Eating Resolutions for the New Year
by Brianne Garrett | New year, new me. It’s a popular mantra that we all tell ourselves going into a new year—vowing that...
Guides
5 Plant-Based Swaps for the Carbs You Crave
by Gretchen Lidicker | Trying to cut carbohydrates? There are plenty of great plant-based substitutes for your favorite carbs...
Guides
13 Easy Ingredient Swaps for Healthier Cooking
by Dan McKay and Jen Wheeler | These easy, healthy ingredient swaps are proof that eating healthy doesn't have to be a chore. Even...