Description
This brown butter cream cheese frosting is a rich and creamy topping perfect for enhancing the flavors of banana, pumpkin, spice, or zucchini cakes. Made with just five simple ingredients, the frosting boasts a nutty depth from browned butter and a smooth texture from cream cheese. Allow time for the browned butter to cool and re-solidify for the perfect consistency. Ideal for spreading or piping on cakes and cupcakes.
Ingredients
Brown Butter
- 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, cut into 4 slices
Frosting
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 and 1/2 cups (300g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: Place the sliced butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat. Stir or whisk constantly as the butter melts, foams, and then starts to brown. Watch carefully for the color to shift from golden yellow to light caramel-brown and for a nutty aroma, about 5 to 7 minutes. Immediately remove from heat and transfer all of the browned butter, including the brown solids, to a medium heatproof bowl. Let it cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then refrigerate until completely solidified.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, using a stand or handheld mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the solidified brown butter on high speed until creamy and smooth, about 1 minute. Add the softened cream cheese and continue beating for another 2 minutes until smooth and combined, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat initially on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed and beat for 2 minutes until fluffy and well combined.
- Frost the Cake or Cupcakes: Spread the frosting onto cooled cakes or cupcakes directly. For piping, transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with your desired tip and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes before decorating. Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- If you need enough frosting for a layer cake, consider doubling the recipe.
- Allowing the browned butter to fully re-solidify is crucial for achieving the right richness and texture.
- You can substitute salted butter but omit the added salt if preferred.
- Keep the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.
- The frosting is best used on cakes that are fully cooled to avoid melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
