Browned Butter Frosting
User Reviews
5
Browned Butter Frosting
Description
The process begins by melting unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat and browning it until small flecks appear, which imparts a distinctive nutty aroma. The browned butter is cooled slightly before being mixed with powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of kosher salt. Whisking or using a hand mixer produces a smooth frosting whose consistency can be adjusted by adding more milk.
This frosting showcases a deep, caramelized butter flavor while maintaining a creamy texture that spreads easily over cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Unlike typical buttercream, the browned butter adds complexity without additional ingredients.
Once made, the frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week but should be brought back to room temperature and possibly stirred with a little milk before use to restore softness. It can also be frozen and thawed for longer storage. The frosting is convenient to prepare ahead of time and improves as it rests.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 cups powdered sugar 260g
- 2 tablespoons milk 33g
- salt kosher salt; a pinch
Instructions
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.
- Place the butter in the skillet. Let it melt.
- Moving the skillet over the heat constantly, allow the butter to brown. When the flecks of brown become more prominent in the melted butter, remove from the heat and set aside. Let it cool for a bit so it is not so hot, as this will affect the texture of the frosting.
- Measure out the powdered sugar into a large bowl.
- Pour the browned butter directly on top of the powdered sugar. Add the milk and a pinch of salt.
- Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the frosting until it is smooth. Add more milk if the frosting is too thick.
- When the frosting reaches the desired consistency, slather on the baked goods of your choosing and enjoy!
Notes
- If the browned butter is too hot when added, chilling the frosting for 20-30 minutes helps it come together properly.
- Store the frosting refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week; let it warm to room temperature before use and whisk in a splash of milk if needed to soften.
- Freeze frosting for up to three months in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before using.
- This frosting can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to spread on baked goods.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 182 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 182kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Protein | 0.2g | 0% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3g | 2% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Trans Fat | 0.3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 19mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 3mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 8mg | 0% |
| Sugar | 30g | 60% |
| Vitamin A | 225IU | 5% |
| Calcium | 7mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.02mg | 0% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.