Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

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Velvety smooth with a nutty depth, this Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is a luxurious upgrade to your classic cream cheese frosting. The brown butter adds a rich, toasty warmth that pairs beautifully with the tang of cream cheese, making it an unforgettable topping for everything from spice cakes to cookies.

Whether you’re elevating a banana cake or spreading it over pumpkin muffins, this frosting is a flavor-forward addition that never disappoints. It whips up creamy and thick, yet still spreadable and perfectly pipeable. The aroma alone is enough to draw a crowd into the kitchen!

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What Makes Brown Butter So Special?

Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is regular butter that’s been melted and gently cooked until the milk solids turn golden brown and toasty. This process brings out a deep, nutty flavor and gives your frosting a rich, caramelized base that transforms the entire experience.

While it takes just a few extra minutes, the payoff is worth it. You’ll notice the layers of flavor deepen, making your frosting feel more gourmet with zero complicated steps.

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Ingredients for the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Unsalted Butter
The star of the show. Browning the butter creates a deep, nutty flavor that takes this frosting to the next level.

Cream Cheese
Gives the frosting its signature tang and creamy texture. Use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for best results.

Powdered Sugar
Provides sweetness and structure. Sift it beforehand to avoid lumps.

Vanilla Extract
Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.

Salt
Just a pinch enhances all the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.

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How To Make the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Add the butter to a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as it melts, then foams and begins to brown. When you see golden flecks and smell a nutty aroma, remove it from heat and pour into a bowl. Chill until slightly firm but still soft.

Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. This step ensures there are no lumps in your final frosting.

Step 3: Combine Butter and Cream Cheese

Add the cooled brown butter to the cream cheese and beat until well combined and creamy.

Step 4: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Continue beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Flavor and Finish

Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix to combine. Your frosting should be creamy, spreadable, and rich with brown butter flavor.

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Serving and Storing Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

This frosting is incredibly versatile—perfect for layer cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and even quick breads like banana or pumpkin. It spreads easily when slightly chilled and holds its shape beautifully for piping.

To store, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Let it soften at room temperature and give it a quick whip before using again. It also freezes well—store for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it up to 5 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Be sure to re-whip it after bringing it to room temperature.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can, but skip the added pinch of salt. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final flavor.

Why does my frosting look curdled?

This can happen if your brown butter was too warm or too firm. Make sure it’s soft but cool before beating with cream cheese.

Can I color this frosting?

Yes, but note that the natural tint from the brown butter will affect the final color. It’s best suited for warm tones.

Is this frosting pipeable?

Absolutely. It holds its shape well when chilled slightly, making it great for decorating cakes and cupcakes.

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Want More Frosting Ideas?

If you love this Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll want to check out these other dreamy toppings:

• Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting for a fruity twist on the classic
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies topped with luscious icing
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies that pair beautifully with this frosting
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a zesty, creamy duo
• Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats that echo the nutty notes

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use it on cookies or cake? Add a swirl of cinnamon or a touch of maple?

I love hearing how you customize these recipes to make them your own. Questions are welcome—let’s help each other frost like pros!

More of my daily recipes can also be found here: Follow Life with Jam on Pinterest

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