Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

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Luxuriously smooth and decadently sweet, this Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is a dream come true for caramel lovers. Swirled with the perfect touch of sea salt, it delivers a rich, creamy consistency that spreads like silk and holds its shape beautifully—ideal for piping onto cupcakes, cakes, and even cookies. Whether you’re aiming to elevate a classic chocolate cake or pair it with an apple-spiced cupcake, this frosting adds a gourmet bakery touch to any dessert.

Made with real homemade or store-bought caramel sauce, this buttercream brings bold depth and buttery warmth. The salt doesn’t overpower; instead, it highlights the deep caramel notes and balances the sweetness just right. Trust us, one lick of the spatula and you’ll be hooked.

What Kind of Caramel Sauce Should I Use?

For the richest flavor, use a thick, high-quality caramel sauce—either homemade or a store-bought version you trust. Look for one made with real butter and cream. Avoid overly runny or overly processed versions; they can throw off the texture of your buttercream and make it greasy.

Ingredients for the Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

• Unsalted Butter: The base of any great buttercream. It provides richness and structure.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect piping consistency.
• Caramel Sauce: Adds that signature sweet, buttery caramel flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Smooths out the frosting and makes it extra creamy.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the caramel notes with a warm, mellow finish.
• Sea Salt: A pinch goes a long way to balance out the sweetness and deepen the flavor.

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How To Make the Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Beat the Butter

Start with softened unsalted butter and beat it on medium-high speed until it’s pale, fluffy, and creamy. This can take about 3 to 4 minutes and is essential for a light, airy frosting.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar Gradually

Reduce the mixer to low and add in the powdered sugar one cup at a time. This prevents a sugar cloud from taking over your kitchen and ensures even mixing.

Step 3: Mix in the Caramel Sauce

Once the sugar is incorporated, add the caramel sauce. Make sure it’s cool but pourable. Beat until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Cream and Vanilla

Drizzle in heavy cream and a splash of vanilla extract. Beat again on medium-high for another 2 minutes until everything is silky smooth.

Step 5: Season with Sea Salt

Finally, mix in a pinch or two of flaky sea salt. Taste and adjust as needed—you want the salt to enhance, not overwhelm.

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How to Serve and Store Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

This frosting is perfect for cupcakes, layer cakes, and even sandwich cookies. Once prepared, it can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When ready to use, bring it back to room temperature and re-whip it to restore its creamy texture.

It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and beat again before using.

What to Serve With Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting?

Chocolate Cupcakes

The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet-salty depth of caramel.

Apple Spice Cake

Warm spices and tender apples are an autumn dream with caramel buttercream.

Vanilla Bean Cupcakes

Keep it simple and let the caramel flavor shine.

Pumpkin Bars

A fall favorite that gets a whole new upgrade with this frosting.

Brownies

Top thick fudgy brownies with a swirl of this frosting and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Sandwiches

Pipe between two cookies for an indulgent treat.

Banana Cake

A moist banana base with this frosting is a total game-changer.

Toasted Pecan Cake

Nutty, crunchy, and the perfect match for creamy caramel.

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Want More Frosting Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting, check out some of our other creative and irresistible options:

• Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting for a super light, no-butter option.
• Cream Cheese Flan for a silky caramel dessert base.
• Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies for another sweet and salty caramel twist.
• Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls if you want to balance your sweet tooth with a citrus zing.
• Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake for something rich and showstopping.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make your own caramel sauce or use a favorite store-bought brand? Did you pair it with chocolate cake or something more daring?

I love hearing your spins on these classics. Ask away if you have any questions—let’s bake smart and delicious together.

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