Butterscotch frosting is a sweet topping commonly used on cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. A simple frosting can be made using butterscotch chips, which can be purchased at a supermarket, or the frosting can be made from scratch using butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar. To prevent the frosting from scorching, a double-boiler should be used to slowly melt the ingredients together. For the best consistency, an electric hand-mixer should be used to combine the frosting ingredients. An icing bag or a spatula can be used to cover and decorate desserts with the butterscotch frosting.
An easy method for making this icing involves using butterscotch chips, which can usually be purchased at a grocery store. The chips may be melted in a microwave, but, for a smoother texture and consistency, it is recommended that a double-boiler be used. When the butterscotch chips are melted, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar can be slowly mixed in to form the frosting. Using an electric mixer to combine the ingredients generally makes the frosting light and fluffy, with a strong butterscotch taste. If the frosting is too thick, small amounts of hot water can be added until the frosting reaches the desired consistency. More powdered sugar and melted butterscotch chips may be added if the frosting is too thin.
A butterscotch frosting can be made from scratch with butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and brown sugar. To develop the butterscotch flavor, brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream should be melted slowly in a double-boiler. While the mixture is melting together, it needs to be stirred constantly to keep it smooth. Powdered sugar should be added to the mixture slowly, taking care to thoroughly combine the sugar before adding more, until the desired consistency is achieved. The vanilla should be mixed in last to enhance the flavor of the butterscotch frosting.
Desserts should be thoroughly cooled before being frosted with butterscotch frosting. After the icing is made, it may be used immediately to top desserts, which results in a smooth finish. If a thicker frosting is desired for a dessert, the frosting should be chilled first. An icing bag may be used to pipe the frosting onto a dessert, or it may be spread on with a small spatula. Butterscotch frosting can be stored in a covered container, in the refrigerator, for 48 hours, and a hand mixer can be used to re-whip the chilled frosting before using it.