Description
Get ready to indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and salty with these mouthwatering salted caramel cupcakes! Each bite is a delicious mix of moist vanilla cake, rich caramel sauce, and a touch of sea salt that creates an irresistible flavor balance. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk
For the salted caramel sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp butter, unsalted
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
For the frosting:
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix the dry ingredients by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fill each cupcake liner 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before adding the filling and frosting.
- Make the salted caramel sauce: Melt the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until amber-colored. Add the butter and stir until melted. Gradually add the cream, then remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let cool slightly.
- Core the cupcakes: Once cooled, cut a small hole in the center of each cupcake and fill with a teaspoon of salted caramel sauce.
- Prepare the frosting: Beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix in the caramel sauce until well combined.
- Frost the cupcakes using a piping bag or spatula, and drizzle with extra caramel sauce for a beautiful finish!
Notes
- Perfect Caramel Balance: The key to these salted caramel cupcakes is getting the caramel just right. Be sure to keep an eye on the sugar as it melts to avoid burning it, and don’t forget to stir in sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty contrast.
- Core the Cupcakes for Extra Flavor: Cutting a small hole in the center of each cupcake and filling it with salted caramel sauce adds an extra burst of flavor in every bite, making these cupcakes extra indulgent.
- Consistency of Frosting: If your frosting turns out too thick, add a small splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. This ensures a smooth, creamy frosting that’s easy to pipe or spread.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Desserts