Brown Butter Frosting
Transform your desserts with the rich, nutty essence of Brown Butter Frosting, a heavenly topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more. This quick and easy recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish and uses simple pantry staples like unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The key to its irresistible flavor lies in browning the butter, which adds deep, caramelized notes and a toasty aroma that elevate any sweet treat. Creamy, silky, and customizable in consistency, this frosting strikes the perfect balance of sweetness with a touch of salt. Whether you’re decorating party desserts or adding a gourmet twist to everyday bakes, this versatile frosting is a must-try. Plus, it stores beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy bakers!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 113 grams unsalted butter
- 360 grams powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Continue cooking the butter, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately transfer the browned butter to a heatproof bowl to stop it from cooking further.
Let the butter cool to room temperature, but remain liquid. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on low speed to start blending.
Add the vanilla extract, milk or heavy cream, and a pinch of salt to the mixture.
Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or heavy cream at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or other desserts. The frosting can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Re-whip before using if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2249 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 97.2 g | 125% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.7 g | 284% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 252 mg | 84% | |
| Sodium | 176 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 361.3 g | 131% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 354.1 g | ||
| Protein | 1.9 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 63 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 86 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
