Browned Butter Frosting

A white bowl of brown butter frosting on a brown surface

Browned Butter Frosting is a unique topping to add to any baked good! All you need are four ingredients and a little patience to make perfectly sweet, nutty and utterly decadent frosting! Slather it on cookies, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls and more.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 8

Chilling Time 20

Servings servings

Calories 182kcal

Ingredients

5 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups powdered sugar 260g
2 tablespoons milk 33g
A pinch of kosher salt

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

Please note that if add the butter while it is still super hot from the skillet, you will need to chill the frosting for 20-30 minutes to get it to come together, as shown in the photos in this post. Simply placing the bowl of frosting in the refrigerator will help the ingredients come together.

How to store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a week. The frosting will firm up as the butter solidifies, so you will need to let it come to room temperature before using. You can also mix in another splash of milk.

How to freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe storage container. Freeze for 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before using.

Easy entertaining tip: Make this in advance! Once made, cover with plastic wrap and transfer to the refrigerator to store until it’s time to use. Let it come to room temperature before spreading.

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