If you’re a fan of both sweet and salty flavors, this salted caramel buttercream is a dream come true. It's rich, creamy, and has the perfect balance of sweetness from the caramel and a hint of salt that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re topping cupcakes, cakes, or filling desserts, this buttercream adds a delicious finishing touch to any sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
½ cup sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon sea salt
For the Buttercream:
½ cup salted caramel sauce (see instructions below)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Make the salted caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns into a golden amber liquid. Once the sugar is melted, add the butter and stir until smooth and fully combined. Carefully add the heavy cream (it may bubble up), and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool completely before using it in the buttercream.
Prepare the buttercream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
Add the cooled salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to the mixture. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the buttercream is light and fluffy.
Use the salted caramel buttercream immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or any dessert of your choice.
Servings and Timing
Servings: About 12 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 150 kcal per serving
Variations
Chocolate Salted Caramel Buttercream: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the buttercream for a chocolatey twist.
Bourbon-Infused Buttercream: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the cooled caramel sauce for a deeper, richer flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and use coconut cream or oat cream for the salted caramel sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftover salted caramel buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Before using refrigerated buttercream, allow it to come to room temperature, then beat it again to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
How can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?
You can make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this buttercream?
While homemade caramel sauce gives the best flavor, you can use store-bought caramel sauce in a pinch. Just make sure it’s a salted variety, or add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
I recommend using unsalted butter for the best control over the amount of salt in your buttercream. The pinch of sea salt added later ensures the perfect balance of flavor.
How thick should the buttercream be?
The buttercream should be light and fluffy, with a consistency that holds its shape when piped onto cakes or cupcakes. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, add a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out.
Can I freeze the salted caramel buttercream?
Yes, you can freeze the buttercream for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and beat it again before applying it to desserts.
Conclusion
This salted caramel buttercream is perfect for those who love a rich, decadent frosting with a balance of sweet and salty. I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is for all kinds of desserts. The homemade salted caramel sauce makes it extra special, adding a deep, buttery flavor that will elevate any cake or cupcake. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced one, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Recipe:
Salted Caramel Buttercream
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade Salted Caramel Buttercream is the perfect frosting for any dessert lover. The rich, creamy texture of the buttercream is enhanced with the sweet and salty combination of homemade salted caramel sauce and a touch of sea salt. It’s perfect for cupcakes, cakes, or any sweet treat that needs an irresistible finishing touch. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this salted caramel buttercream will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
½ cup sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon sea salt
For the Buttercream:
½ cup salted caramel sauce (see instructions below)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
-
Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:
-
In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns into a golden amber liquid.
-
Add the butter and stir until smooth and fully combined.
-
Carefully add the heavy cream (it may bubble up) and continue stirring until smooth.
-
Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
-
Allow the caramel to cool completely before using it in the buttercream.
-
-
Prepare the Buttercream:
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until smooth.
-
Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
-
Add the cooled salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
-
Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the buttercream is light and fluffy.
-
-
Frost your desserts immediately with the salted caramel buttercream.
Notes
Chocolate Salted Caramel Buttercream: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
Bourbon-Infused Buttercream: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the cooled caramel sauce for a richer flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use coconut or oat cream in the salted caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Frosting
- Method: Stovetop, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 12 servings
- Calories: 150 kcal per serving
