This brown butter frosting makes enough frosting to cover a 9x13" cake, one two layer 8" or 9" cake, will generously frost 12 cupcakes (as shown in pictures), or will modestly cover 24 cupcakes!Be sure to check out the how-to video!
Place one stick of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook until butter is melted, then continue to cook, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan constantly, as butter sizzles and pops. Once butter bits near the bottom of the pan begin to turn brown, remove skillet from heat and pour browned butter into heatproof bowl.
½ cup unsalted butter
Allow butter to completely cool and re-solidify before proceeding. You can place the butter in the refrigerator to speed up the process, but it can’t be cold when you go to make your frosting and must be near room temperature.
For Frosting:
Once butter has completely re-solidified, combine butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl (or in the bowl of a stand mixer). Use an electric mixer to cream together butter and cream cheese.
8 oz full-fat brick-style cream cheese
Stir in vanilla extract and salt until completely combined.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon salt
Gradually, about ½ cup (65g) at a time, stir in powdered sugar until all has been added, be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
4 cups powdered sugar
Use frosting as desired, spread over cake or pipe or spread over cupcakes!
Video
Notes
Making In Advance
Browned butter can be made several days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before using.Frosting may be made 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator with a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface of the frosting. Bring to room temperature and briefly beat with an electric mixer before using over cake/cupcakes.You may also freeze in an airtight container for several months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in your refrigerator then bring to room temperature. You may need to beat it once more with an electric mixer before piping or spreading as needed.
Can I leave this frosting out at room temperature?
Yes, this frosting can sit at room temperature (up to 75F/24C) for up to 48 hours. Any longer than that and I recommend refrigerating.