Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is a luxurious twist on traditional cream cheese frosting. Instead of using plain softened butter, you brown it first. That simple extra step completely transforms the flavour.

The result? A frosting that tastes warm, nutty, and slightly toasty—almost like caramelised hazelnuts.

What Makes Brown Butter So Special?

When butter melts and cooks, the milk solids separate and begin to brown. This process creates a deep golden colour and releases a nutty aroma. The French call it beurre noisette, which literally means “hazelnut butter.”

Here’s what happens during browning:

• Water evaporates

• Milk solids caramelise

• Flavour intensifies dramatically

• Aroma becomes rich and toasty.

It’s a small change with a big impact.

Why Add Cream Cheese to Brown Butter Frosting?

Cream cheese brings balance. While brown butter adds richness, cream cheese adds:

• Tanginess

• Smooth texture

• Structure for piping

• Reduced sweetness

Together, they create a frosting that’s not overly sugary. Instead, it’s balanced, creamy, and elegant.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter

• 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened

• 3–4 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (if needed)

• Pinch of salt

Optional Flavour Enhancers

You can elevate your Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting with:

• Maple syrup

• Cinnamon

• Espresso powder

• A splash of bourbon

• Orange zest

Step-by-Step 

Step 1: How to Brown Butter the Right Way

1. Cut butter into pieces.

2. Place in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat.

3. Stir constantly as it melts.

4. Butter will foam, bubble, then begin turning golden.

5. Watch for brown specks at the bottom.

6. Once it smells nutty and turns amber, remove from heat immediately.

Pour into a heatproof bowl and let it cool until solid but soft (about 1 hour at room temperature or 20–30 minutes in the fridge).

Signs Your Butter Is Perfectly Browned

• Deep golden color

• Brown flecks visible

• Strong nutty aroma

• No burnt smell

If it smells burnt, it’s gone too far. Start again—it happens to everyone!

Step 2: Mixing the Cream Cheese Base

In a mixing bowl:

• Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

• Add cooled brown butter.

• Beat until creamy and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Ensure both ingredients are at a similar temperature to prevent lumps.

Step 3: Combine and Sweeten

1. Gradually add powdered sugar (1 cup at a time).

2. Beat on low speed to prevent sugar clouds.

3. Add vanilla and salt.

4. Increase speed and whip until light and fluffy.

5. Add heavy cream if needed for a smoother texture.

Your frosting should be silky, spreadable, and slightly thick.

Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavour

How to Avoid Grainy Frosting

• Always sift powdered sugar.

• Let brown butter cool fully before mixing.

• Beat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Related

How To Make Heavy Cream

Storage and Shelf Life

Because this frosting contains cream cheese, proper storage matters.

Refrigeration Guidelines

• Store in airtight container.

• Keeps for 4–5 days in the refrigerator.

• Bring to room temperature before using.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Rewhip before using.