Brown Butter Cake Frosting
Brown Butter Cake Frosting is a delectable frosting that combines the deep, nutty richness of browned butter with a silky smooth, creamy texture. This frosting offers a warm, caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements a variety of cakes, from classic vanilla to chocolate and spiced flavors, making your desserts irresistibly delicious and ideal for any occasion.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost a 9-inch two-layer cake
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing, Whipping
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (browned)
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream
- A pinch of salt
- Brown the Butter: Begin by melting unsalted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as it melts and changes from frothy to golden with brown specks forming at the bottom. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Once browned, immediately transfer the butter to a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly.
- Whip the Butter: After the brown butter has cooled to room temperature but remains liquid, pour it into a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a large bowl if using a hand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light, fluffy, and slightly thickened.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition to prevent lumps. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. The frosting will thicken and become smooth during this step.
- Adjust Texture with Heavy Cream: Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time to achieve your desired consistency. Add more for a richer, creamier frosting or less for a thicker texture. Continue to beat until the frosting is silky and spreadable.
- Final Whip and Taste: Give the frosting a final whip to make it extra fluffy. Taste and adjust sweetness or salt as needed. Your Brown Butter Cake Frosting is now ready to use.
Notes
- Monitor the butter closely while browning to avoid burning; look for an amber color and nutty aroma.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing and to prevent curdling.
- Sift powdered sugar before mixing to avoid lumps and achieve a silky finish.
- Cool browned butter properly—it should be warm but not hot when mixing for optimal fluffiness.
- Adjust heavy cream quantity to customize frosting thickness or spreadability according to preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: brown butter frosting, cake frosting, easy frosting recipe, nutty frosting, homemade frosting, brown butter, dessert frosting