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Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Enough for 12 cupcakes
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is your go-to for elevating every dessert it touches. With deep, nutty undertones from browned butter and a silky tang from cream cheese, it’s a rich, dreamy option for topping cupcakes, cakes, cookies, and more. Whether you need a quick dessert upgrade or a frosting with real personality, this one’s perfect for your baking list. It spreads like butter and pipes like a dream—great for easy dessert recipes, quick baking ideas, and indulgent treats for gatherings.


Ingredients

113g unsalted butter (1/2 cup)

226g cream cheese (8 oz block, softened)

360g powdered sugar (3 cups)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt


Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma.

2. Remove the browned butter from heat and let it cool until it’s soft and spreadable.

3. In a mixing bowl, beat the cooled brown butter with the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.

4. Add the vanilla extract and beat to combine.

5. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

6. Add a pinch of salt and beat again until light, creamy, and fully blended.

7. Adjust consistency as needed: add more powdered sugar for a stiffer frosting, or a splash of milk for a looser one.

8. Use immediately, or chill and bring to room temp before using again.

Notes

Make sure the browned butter is fully cooled before mixing—it should be soft but not melted.

If using salted butter, omit the added salt or adjust to taste.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Frosting
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: cream cheese frosting, brown butter frosting, cupcake frosting, easy frosting recipe