Description
This Salted Caramel Cake Filling is rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced with a hint of sea salt. Ideal for layering between cakes, filling cupcakes, or spooning over desserts, this creamy filling adds gourmet flavor to any bake.
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature and cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream, room temperature
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, pour in the sugar and begin stirring continuously with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon. It will start to clump before it melts into a deep amber liquid.
2. Once the sugar is fully melted, carefully add the butter. It will bubble up rapidly, so stir constantly until fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Remove the pan from heat and slowly pour in the cream while stirring. The mixture will bubble again—this is normal. Stir until fully mixed.
4. Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract if using. Let the caramel cool for 10–15 minutes before using as a cake filling. It will thicken as it cools.
Notes
Use room temperature cream and butter to prevent splattering.
For a stronger flavor, add a second pinch of flaky sea salt after cooling.
Let the caramel cool slightly before using—it will be easier to spread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert Filling
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: cake filling, caramel, salted caramel, dessert filling