Salted Caramel Cupcakes

Salted Caramel Cupcakes

Salted Caramel Cupcakes are an irresistible delight that blend the rich, buttery flavor of cupcakes with the sweet and salty punch of decadent salted caramel. Each bite is a delightful experience, featuring a moist, fluffy texture beautifully enhanced by creamy caramel frosting. This recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for celebrations or a cozy gathering at home. Easy and comforting, these cupcakes will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings. In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to creating these delightful treats that are sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Salted Caramel Cupcakes. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. With quick cooking times and minimal ingredients, you’ll be able to whip together a batch in no time. Plus, these cupcakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an afternoon tea, or simply a sweet treat for the family, the combination of sweet and salty flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

The magic of Salted Caramel Cupcakes lies in their simple yet delightful ingredients, each contributing to a harmonious blend of flavor and texture:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our cupcakes, providing a soft, fluffy crumb.
• 1 tsp baking powder: A key leavening agent ensuring lightness.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Complementing the baking powder for that perfect rise.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhancing the sweetness and balancing flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Giving richness and a creamy texture to the batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adding sweetness and moisture.
• 2 large eggs: Binding the ingredients and contributing to the lovely texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A must-have for its aromatic warmth.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Keeping the cupcakes moist and tender.
• 1/4 cup milk: Ensuring the right consistency in the batter.
• 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce: Infusing the cupcakes with that irresistible caramel flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creating a buttercream that’s rich and smooth.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetening the frosting while achieving a velvety texture.
• 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (for frosting): Enhancing the depth of flavor in the frosting.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Adding a touch of warmth.
• A pinch of salt: Just enough to amplify the sweetness of the frosting.
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (for frosting): To achieve the right creamy consistency.
• Extra salted caramel sauce (for garnish): For that drizzled perfection.
• Coarse sea salt (for garnish): A finishing touch that elevates the entire experience.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. This mixture ensures a uniform distribution of leavening agents in the batter.

Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, before stirring in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk and milk. Start and end with the dry mixture. Once combined, fold in the salted caramel sauce until just mixed.

Step 5: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy. For a fluffy consistency, add heavy cream as needed.

Step 7: Once fully cooled, pipe or spread the caramel frosting generously onto each cupcake. Drizzle with additional salted caramel sauce and garnish with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt for that picture-perfect finish.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Salted Caramel Cupcakes further, consider these handy tips:

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter after adding the salted caramel sauce to maintain a light texture.
• Use a piping bag to frost your cupcakes for a professional appearance.
• Experiment with different types of caramel sauces—homemade or store-bought—to find your perfect match.
• Adding a layer of crushed nuts on top can provide a delightful crunch and additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Salted Caramel Cupcakes are delicious on their own, but a few serving suggestions can enhance the experience. Consider pairing them with a hot cup of coffee, a cup of steaming tea, or even a tall glass of cold milk. They are perfect for birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or simply as an indulgent weekend treat. For a more festive look, consider setting them on a decorative platter alongside some seasonal fruits like berries or apples for contrast.

Nutritional Information

Each Salted Caramel Cupcake provides approximately 280 calories, with the following nutritional breakdown:

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 170mg
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 2g

While it’s okay to indulge in sweets occasionally, balance these treats with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for a healthy lifestyle.

Storing Tips & Variations

To keep your Salted Caramel Cupcakes fresh:

• Storing: Keep cooled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If frosting them ahead of time, refrigerate to extend freshness.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving. If desired, warm them slightly in the microwave for a soft, gooey texture.
• Variations: Try adding chocolate chips to the batter for added sweetness, or switching the salted caramel for chocolate ganache if you’re a chocolate lover.

Conclusion

These Salted Caramel Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will love. Their easy-to-follow recipe and comforting taste make them a perfect addition to any occasion or simply a lovely treat for yourself. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at baking these delicious cupcakes, and be sure to share your experience in the comments! Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of adjusting the salt in the recipe.

2. How do I know when my cupcakes are done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done!

3. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

4. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

5. How can I customize the frosting?
Feel free to add ingredients like cocoa powder for a chocolate twist or experiment with flavored extracts to match your preference.

Salted Caramel Cupcakes

Deliciously moist cupcakes infused with the rich flavor of salted caramel, topped with a creamy caramel frosting for a delightful treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 12 cupcakes

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cupcake Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of our cupcakes, providing a soft, fluffy crumb.
• 1 tsp baking powder A key leavening agent ensuring lightness.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda Complementing the baking powder for that perfect rise.
• 1/4 tsp salt Enhancing the sweetness and balancing flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Giving richness and a creamy texture to the batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Adding sweetness and moisture.
• 2 large eggs Binding the ingredients and contributing to the lovely texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract A must-have for its aromatic warmth.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk Keeping the cupcakes moist and tender.
• 1/4 cup milk Ensuring the right consistency in the batter.
• 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce Infusing the cupcakes with that irresistible caramel flavor.

Frosting Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Creating a buttercream that’s rich and smooth.
• 1 cup powdered sugar Sweetening the frosting while achieving a velvety texture.
• 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce Enhancing the depth of flavor in the frosting.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Adding a touch of warmth.
• a pinch salt Just enough to amplify the sweetness of the frosting.
• 2 tbsp heavy cream To achieve the right creamy consistency.
• extra salted caramel sauce For that drizzled perfection.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk and milk. Start and end with the dry mixture. Fold in the salted caramel sauce until just mixed.

Baking

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
2. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting Preparation

1. While the cupcakes cool, in a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
2. Add heavy cream as needed for a fluffy consistency.
3. Once fully cooled, pipe or spread the caramel frosting generously onto each cupcake.
4. Drizzle with additional salted caramel sauce and garnish with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt.

Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter. Don’t overmix the batter after adding the salted caramel sauce. Use a piping bag to frost your cupcakes for a professional appearance. Experiment with different types of caramel sauces to find your perfect match. Adding a layer of crushed nuts on top can provide a delightful crunch and additional flavor.