Old-Fashioned Caramel Icing

Old-Fashioned Caramel Icing is a classic recipe that brings a nostalgic, homemade sweetness to your cakes and desserts. It’s rich, buttery, and full of deep caramel flavor, making it the perfect icing for cakes like Southern caramel cake, cupcakes, or even brownies. This icing is made using simple ingredients and requires a bit of patience as it thickens into a creamy, dreamy consistency. It’s a true taste of old-fashioned baking, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s been a favorite for generations!

Old-Fashioned Caramel Icing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This caramel icing recipe is loved for its deep, rich flavor and smooth texture. It adds a decadent layer of sweetness to any dessert, transforming a simple cake into something extraordinary. The icing is made with just three ingredients—sugar, milk, and butter—so it’s easy to prepare, but the result is a luxurious caramel that will impress everyone. Plus, it can be used for more than just cakes; drizzle it over ice cream, pancakes, or even fruit for a delicious treat!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups white granulated sugar
  • 1 1/3 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 sticks cold butter (12 tablespoons)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Heat the sugar and milk: In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
  2. Cook to caramelize: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a deep golden brown color. This can take 15-20 minutes, depending on the heat. Be patient and don’t rush this step, as it’s essential to achieving that rich caramel flavor.
  3. Add the butter: Once the mixture reaches the desired color and consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the cold butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully melted and incorporated into the caramel.
  4. Cool slightly: Allow the icing to cool for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cools, it will begin to thicken. If it becomes too thick to spread, you can gently reheat it to soften.
  5. Spread the icing: Spread the warm caramel icing over your cake or cupcakes. The icing will set as it cools, forming a smooth, glossy finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: This caramel icing is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. It’s best when spread while still warm to get a smooth finish. You can also drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream for a rich caramel touch.
  • Storage: Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave to bring it back to a spreadable consistency before using.

Helpful Notes

  • Be sure to cook the caramel slowly over medium heat to avoid burning the sugar. The key to a good caramel flavor is patience.
  • If the icing becomes too thick before spreading, reheat it gently and stir until it loosens up.
  • You can add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel icing for a salted caramel variation.

FAQs

1. Can I make this icing ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the icing ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on low heat until it’s spreadable again.

2. Can I use this icing on cookies?
Absolutely! This caramel icing works great on cookies. Just be sure to let the icing set before stacking or storing them.

3. How can I prevent the sugar from burning?
Stir the sugar and milk mixture frequently and keep the heat at medium to prevent burning. If it starts to caramelize too quickly, reduce the heat.

4. Can I use a different type of milk?
Whole milk works best for this recipe to achieve a rich, creamy texture, but you can use 2% milk in a pinch. Avoid skim milk as it won’t produce the same creamy consistency.

5. Can I add vanilla or other flavors?
Yes, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or other flavorings like almond extract after the butter is incorporated for an extra layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Old-Fashioned Caramel Icing is a simple, nostalgic treat that brings a buttery sweetness to any dessert. Whether you’re frosting a cake or just want a delicious caramel sauce to drizzle over ice cream, this recipe is a keeper. With its rich caramel flavor and smooth texture, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for special occasions or just when you’re craving something sweet. Enjoy the classic taste of homemade caramel icing with this timeless recipe!

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