Smooth, Caramel-Rich Buttercream That Melts in Your Mouth

This Dulce de Leche Buttercream is what sweet dreams are made of! It’s rich, creamy, and laced with that deep, caramel flavor we all crave. Whether you’re slathering it on cupcakes, layering it between cakes, or sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl (we won’t tell), this frosting brings bakery-level decadence with hardly any effort. It’s quick to whip up, pipes like a dream, and tastes like dulce de leche heaven.

Recipe Rundown

My Take

I whipped up this Dulce de Leche Buttercream to pair with some chocolate caramel cookies from a boxed mix. The cookies were just okay—but this frosting stole the show. Like, WOW. 

Let’s Talk Flavor

If you love dulce de leche, you’re in for a treat. It’s got that rich, buttery, sweet caramel flavor that’s so much deeper and dreamier than anything artificial. It’s more of the classic caramel taste, just like it came from a fancy bakery.

What to Use It On

This frosting is creamy, velvety, and so pipe-able, which makes it super versatile. Here are some fun ways to use it:

• Swirled onto chocolate cupcakes or vanilla cupcakes
• As a filling between soft sandwich cookies or alfajores
• On top of a caramel-drizzled banana cake
• Layered in a chocolate or coffee layer cake
• Piped onto brownies or churro bars
• Spooned over warm cinnamon rolls (yes, do it.)

Final Thoughts

I definitely don’t use dulce de leche enough—but this recipe is changing that. It’s simple, quick, and makes everything taste like caramel heaven. Save this one—you’ll come back to it every time you need a homemade caramel-y buttercream.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Q: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
A: Yes! Just add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Q: What’s the best way to use this frosting?
A: It’s perfect for piping onto cupcakes, filling layer cakes, frosting cookies, or even spreading over brownies for a caramel twist.

Q: Can I make this without heavy cream?
A: You can use milk or half-and-half instead—just add it slowly until the consistency is right.

Sprinkle of Fun

Turn your treats into a fiesta with this buttercream! For a Cinco de Mayo celebration, pipe this dulce de leche deliciousness onto cinnamon cupcakes or mini churro cookies, then top with fiesta sprinkles, edible glitter, or mini candy sombreros. Want to go all out? Set up a DIY cupcake bar with fun toppings like crushed cinnamon cereal, chocolate-dipped tortilla chips, or even caramel popcorn. Bonus points for colorful papel picado decorations and maracas on the dessert table!

Dulce de Leche Buttercream

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

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• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup dulce de leche
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream, as needed

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Mix in the dulce de leche until smooth.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well.
4. Add vanilla, then beat for another 2 minutes.
5. Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired texture is reached.