Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re craving the perfect combination of sweet, salty, creamy, and decadent, these Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are here to steal the spotlight. With their moist cake base, luscious cream cheese filling, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of sea salt, these cupcakes are irresistible. Ready to bake? Let’s dive into this sensational recipe.
Introduction
Cupcakes have long been a go-to dessert for parties, celebrations, or even just an indulgent treat. But when you elevate them with a salted caramel twist and a creamy surprise filling, they become something truly extraordinary. These Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes combine fluffy vanilla cake with a tangy cream cheese center, rich caramel sauce, and the perfect hint of saltiness to balance out the sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is both approachable and impressive.
Ingredients
To make these delightful cupcakes, gather the following ingredients:
Cupcake Base
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
Filling
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Topping
- 1 cup cream cheese frosting
- Pretzel twists (optional)
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
- Sea salt flakes for garnish
How to Make Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Follow these steps to create your own batch of Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prepare for the batter.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Set this dry mixture aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant, rich flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition.
- Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be smooth but not overworked.
Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full to leave room for rising.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Fill the Cupcakes
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, cut a small hole in the center of each cupcake using a paring knife or a cupcake corer.
- Fill each hole halfway with softened cream cheese, then top it off with caramel sauce for a gooey, creamy center.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
- Frost the cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, spreading it smoothly or using a piping bag for a decorative swirl.
- Drizzle the frosting with extra caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
- Garnish with a pretzel twist (if desired) and a light sprinkle of sea salt flakes for a perfect sweet-and-salty balance.
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your wet ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smooth batter and filling.
- Use High-Quality Caramel: Store-bought caramel works, but homemade caramel sauce will take these cupcakes to the next level.
- Filling Technique: Use a piping bag with a narrow tip to neatly fill the cupcakes with the cream cheese and caramel mixture.
- Extra Flavors: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced twist.
Cooking Tips
- Perfecting the Texture: Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can result in dense cupcakes instead of light, fluffy ones.
- Prevent Sticky Caramel: Lightly spray your measuring spoon with nonstick spray before measuring caramel sauce to make cleanup easier.
- Chill Before Filling: Let the cupcakes cool fully to prevent the filling and frosting from melting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cupcakes as a centerpiece for any special occasion. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. If you’re hosting a dessert buffet, display them on a tiered cupcake stand with additional toppings like crushed pretzels or mini chocolate chips for extra flair.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of these cupcakes:
- Calories: 290 per cupcake
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Sugar: 25g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 5%
- Iron: 4%
These cupcakes are indulgent, so enjoy them as a special treat!
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the frosting and filling fresh.
- Freeze: You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then fill and frost as directed.
- Serving Leftovers: Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the cupcakes in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Fill, frost, and garnish just before serving.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
Of course! Store-bought cream cheese frosting works well, but homemade frosting will add a fresher, creamier taste.
What other toppings can I use?
Crushed toffee, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add extra texture and flavor.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version.
Related Recipes
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Conclusion
These Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re baking for a party or just treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress everyone who tries them. Try this recipe today and enjoy the magic of salted caramel and cream cheese in every bite!