Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

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Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is the kind of finishing touch that instantly turns a simple cake or batch of cupcakes into something unforgettable. It’s silky, rich, and perfectly balanced between sweet caramel depth and a subtle salty edge that keeps every bite interesting.

This buttercream pipes beautifully, spreads smoothly, and holds its shape whether you’re decorating layer cakes, cupcakes, or filling sandwich cookies. Once you taste this homemade version, store-bought frosting simply won’t compare.

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Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

This frosting delivers a deep caramel flavor without being overly sweet. The addition of fine sea salt enhances the buttery richness and keeps the flavor balanced.

It’s sturdy enough for piping decorative swirls yet soft enough to spread effortlessly over cakes. Whether you’re frosting 24 cupcakes or a two-layer 8-inch cake, this recipe gives you consistent, reliable results every time.

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What Kind of Caramel Sauce Should I Use for Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting?

For the best flavor and texture, use a thick, high-quality caramel sauce. Homemade caramel sauce works beautifully, but a premium store-bought version is also fine as long as it’s rich and not too runny.

If the caramel is too thin, the buttercream may become too soft. A thick sauce ensures the frosting stays fluffy and pipeable while delivering bold caramel flavor.

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Ingredients for the Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

Unsalted Butter
Provides the rich, creamy base of the buttercream. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level precisely.

Powdered Sugar
Sweetens the frosting while giving it structure and a smooth consistency.

Thick Caramel Sauce
Infuses the buttercream with deep caramel flavor and beautiful color.

Heavy Cream
Adds silkiness and helps adjust the consistency for spreading or piping.

Vanilla Extract
Enhances the caramel notes and rounds out the flavor.

Fine Sea Salt
Balances the sweetness and creates that signature salted caramel taste.

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How To Make the Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Beat 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until pale and fluffy. This step builds the light foundation for the frosting.

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually mix in 3½ cups (420 g) powdered sugar, about one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the bowl as needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated.

Step 3: Blend in the Caramel

Add ½ cup (120 g) thick caramel sauce and mix until fully combined. The buttercream will take on a smooth caramel color and aroma.

Step 4: Adjust the Texture

Pour in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until light and creamy.

Step 5: Finish with Salt

Add ½ teaspoon fine sea salt and mix briefly. Taste and adjust slightly if needed, but avoid exceeding the total amount listed to maintain balance.

The finished frosting should be fluffy, smooth, and easy to pipe.

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Serving and Storing Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of frosting, enough to frost 24 cupcakes generously (about 2 tablespoons per cupcake) or fill and frost one two-layer 8-inch cake. It serves up to 24 people, depending on portion size.

Store the buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip briefly until smooth. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before re-whipping.

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What to Serve With Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting?

Vanilla Cupcakes

A classic pairing that lets the caramel flavor shine.

Chocolate Layer Cake

The sweet-salty contrast works beautifully with rich chocolate.

Brown Sugar Cake

Enhances the warm, caramel undertones.

Apple Spice Cake

Pairs perfectly with fall flavors and cinnamon notes.

Banana Cake

Caramel and banana create a naturally delicious combination.

Coffee Cake

Adds a sweet finishing layer to a lightly spiced base.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it up to 5 days in advance and store it refrigerated. Let it soften at room temperature and re-whip before using.

Why is my buttercream too soft?

If your caramel sauce is thin or the kitchen is warm, the frosting may loosen. Chill it for 15–20 minutes, then beat again until fluffy.

Can I make it less sweet?

You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it provides structure. Do not reduce it drastically or the frosting may become too soft.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added sea salt to avoid over-salting.

Does this frosting hold up for piping decorations?

Absolutely. This buttercream holds swirls and borders well, especially when slightly chilled before piping.

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Save This Pin For Later

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

If you love caramel desserts, you might also enjoy our Salted Caramel Apple Pie, Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake, Lemon Cupcakes, or Chocolate Lava Cakes for more baking inspiration.

For even more daily baking ideas and sweet creations, visit Meals We Share on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mealsweshare/

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Conclusion

Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is a simple upgrade that makes any dessert feel bakery-worthy. With its silky texture, balanced sweetness, and bold caramel flavor, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Whip up a batch, frost your favorite cake, and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and salty in every bite.

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