Burnt Caramel Cake Icing

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Indulge in the rich and luxurious flavors of Burnt Caramel Cake Icing, where sweet caramel meets creamy milk for a delightful treat. This icing is perfect for enhancing layer cakes, cupcakes, or any dessert that craves a touch of gourmet flair. Ideal for special occasions or weekend baking.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. sugar
  • 3/4 c. milk
  • 1 Tbsp. white Karo syrup

Instructions

  1. Put 2 cups sugar and milk in a saucepan.
  2. Add syrup.
  3. Put the 1/2 cup sugar in a small skillet and pour enough water over it to moisten good.
  4. Turn on low heat under saucepan.
  5. While it is heating, brown the sugar in the skillet.
  6. When brown, pour it into the saucepan.
  7. Cook until a soft ball forms in cold water.
  8. Remove from stove and beat until ready to spread on the cake.
  9. Add butter, the size of a walnut, and flavoring.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother icing, ensure you constantly stir the sugar and milk mixture while heating. If you don't have white Karo syrup, you can substitute with corn syrup or honey. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy when cooking the sugar, aiming for the soft ball stage (around 235°F). If the icing thickens too much, a little milk can help adjust the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This icing pairs beautifully with chocolate or vanilla cakes, enhancing their flavors with its rich caramel notes. It can also be used to elevate brownies or serve alongside rolls/" class="es-inline-link">Breakfast Rolls for a sweet brunch treat. Drizzle over ice cream for an indulgent dessert or use it as a filling for pastries.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Burnt Caramel Cake Icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning. If it hardens, adding a splash of milk can help restore its spreadable texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Burnt Caramel Cake Icing contains roughly 43 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).

43 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.9g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 10.4g 4% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 0.6g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 7.6mg
Potassium 102mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.4mcg
Vitamin C 14.7mg 16% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 14.7mg 1% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a richer flavor, but it may alter the texture slightly. Brown sugar will produce a deeper caramel flavor and color, so adjust your cooking time as necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

What can I do if my icing turns out too hard?

If your icing is too hard, you can gently reheat it and add a small amount of milk or cream to soften it. Stir well to incorporate the liquid and achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Be cautious not to overheat to prevent burning.

How can I achieve a darker caramel flavor?

To achieve a darker caramel flavor, allow the sugar in the skillet to cook longer until it reaches a deep amber color before adding it to the saucepan. Keep a close eye on it, as it can quickly go from perfect to burnt.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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