Caramel Icing Recipe

Indulge your senses with this decadent homemade caramel icing, a rich and creamy topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and more! Inspired by a classic Bon Appétit recipe (December 2002), this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a luxurious caramel flavor in just 30 minutes. Get ready to impress!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 3867.3 kcal
Protein 35g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Caramel Icing 31

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Caramel Icing

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How to Make Caramel Icing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream and softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and 2/3 cup of water.
  3. Stir over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not stir unnecessarily once the sugar is dissolved.
  4. Increase the heat to high.
  5. Boil the syrup without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally. Use a pastry brush dipped in water to gently brush down the sides of the pan to prevent crystallization. Continue boiling until the syrup turns a deep amber color (about 10-12 minutes).
  6. Carefully and slowly whisk in the cream cheese mixture. Be cautious as the hot caramel will bubble.
  7. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
  8. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and glossy (about 1 minute).
  9. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
  10. Let the caramel icing cool for 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
  11. This recipe yields enough caramel icing for one 9-inch layer cake, with some leftover for drizzling or serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

24 g

Sugar

1800g

Fat

720g

Carbs

153g