Butterscotch Icing

This recipe for butterscotch icing is the perfect and decadent treat. Fluffy, sweet, and ready in under 5 minutes. This icing pairs beautifully with carrot cake and only has a handful of ingredients!

Butterscotch is such a warming flavor that I think it sometimes gets associated with more fall flavors, however, this recipe for butterscotch icing is so delicious and pairs well with so many things, you can enjoy butterscotch frosting all year round.

Are Frosting and Icing the same?

While the terms “frosting” and “icing” are often used interchangeably, there can be slight differences in their composition and usage depending on regional preferences and culinary traditions. Generally, frosting and icing refer to sweet toppings used to decorate and enhance the flavor of baked goods. In this post, icing and frosting will be used interchangeably.

What is butterscotch?

Butterscotch is a delectable confectionery flavor that is beloved for its rich, buttery, and caramel-like taste. It is often associated with desserts and candies, adding a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor. The word “butterscotch” itself is believed to have originated from the combination of “butter” and “scotch,” with “scotch” referring to the Scottish origin of the candy.

How is butterscotch made / what is it made of?

Traditionally, butterscotch is made by melting butter and combining it with brown sugar, creating a smooth and velvety mixture. Sometimes, additional ingredients such as cream, vanilla, or salt may be added to enhance the flavor and texture. The mixture is then cooked until it reaches a specific temperature or consistency, resulting in a thick and creamy butterscotch sauce or candy.

Do I need to make my own butterscotch for butterscotch icing?

Absolutely not! I used a butterscotch syrup in this recipe because I am a working mom and I need to be quick about things but still get all the delicious flavor of butterscotch.

What pairs well with butterscotch and what can I use it with?

It can be drizzled over ice cream, used as a filling or topping for cakes and pastries, or even incorporated into beverages and cocktails.

Where does butterscotch come from?

Scotland, particularly the town of Doncaster, became renowned for its production of butterscotch in the early 19th century. Butterscotch candies gained popularity and became widely enjoyed throughout Britain and beyond.

Why you should make this butterscotch icing recipe

• It is ready in under 5 minutes
• it is made up of 4 ingredients
• it is so rich and decadent, it is like a dessert itself

Ingredients

½ cup Unsalted Butter, softened to room temperature
1 8oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
3 cups Powdered Sugar
2 teaspoon Butterscotch Syrup
1 tablespoon Milk (or cream), optional

How to make Butterscotch Icing

1. Take the softened unsalted butter and softened cream cheese, place in the bowl of a stand mixer or a bowl that is safe to use a hand mixer. Beat for 2 minutes so it starts to get fluffy.
2. Cream your butter mixture and sugar:
   Add the powdered sugar and beat for 3 minutes until it gets fluffy. Add the butterscotch syrup and beat a minute more. If you feel like your butterscotch icing is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of milk (or cream) and continue to beat. Do this until it reaches the consistency that you like.
3. Decorate:
   Fill your icing into a piping bag (preferably a reusable one!) and pipe the butterscotch icing onto cakes, cupcakes, or into the center of cookies.

Recipe Success Tips

• Make sure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This is important because of neither is, it will be clumpy and your frosting will have chunks in it. You do not want this 1) for taste and 2) it will clog up the nozzle of your piping bag.
• If you find that your frosting is too thick, it is a simple fix. Add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time and continue to beat the icing. This will help loosen it up!
• If you find that for some reason your icing isn’t thick enough, add a bit more powdered sugar (¼ cup) and beat and it will thicken up immediately.

How much butterscotch icing does this recipe make?

It will make you enough to ice 12 cupcakes. Or several mini cakes as are seen in the photos above.

Can I freeze butterscotch frosting?

Yes! You absolutely can freeze icing. I love freezing it because it means I have some saved up for the next time I want to use it. Simply place the icing into an airtight or freezer friendly bag and seal it up. The icing will last 3 months in the freezer. When ready to use, remove from freezer the night before and place in the fridge. The next day, place on the counter to warm up a bit before use. If you find it is still a bit too stiff, beat it up with a mixer and it will taste like new.

Does Butterscotch Icing need to be refridgerated?

Buttercream icing typically does not need to be refrigerated if it is used to frost a cake or cupcakes that will be consumed within a day or two. However, if you plan to store the frosted cake or cupcakes for an extended period or if the weather is very hot and humid, refrigeration can help maintain the freshness and stability of the buttercream.

Refrigeration can cause the buttercream to firm up, so it’s important to bring the cake or cupcakes to room temperature before serving to ensure a softer and more enjoyable texture. If you choose to refrigerate the buttercream, it’s advisable to store the cake or cupcakes in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.

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Did you love the recipe? If you did, let me know! And let others know too by leaving a comment and star rating. Reviews are incredibly useful in helping other people find my site and make my recipes. Thank you so much!

Laura 

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