The Best Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe: Sweet, Salty, and Totally Irresistible!
If you love a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, then these Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a must-try! These cupcakes are packed with rich, moist texture and topped with a silky, tangy cream cheese frosting and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a decadent treat, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love These Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
- Perfectly Moist Cupcakes: These cupcakes have a soft, buttery crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Tangy Cream Cheese Frosting: The frosting is rich, smooth, and perfectly complements the sweetness of the salted caramel.
- Easy-to-Make Recipe: Despite the complex flavors, these cupcakes are surprisingly easy to bake at home.
- Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce: Skip the store-bought stuff! This homemade salted caramel sauce brings a luxurious flavor to the cupcakes.
- Salty-Sweet Flavor: A drizzle of salted caramel on top gives the cupcakes the perfect sweet and salty contrast.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly for a soft texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Ensures the cupcakes rise to a fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cupcakes without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs – The eggs provide structure and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and aroma.
- ½ cup whole milk – Helps create a smooth batter that bakes up perfectly.
For the Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter – The base for a smooth, creamy caramel sauce.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – Gives the caramel its rich, deep sweetness.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For an extra burst of flavor in the caramel.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt – This is key for achieving the signature salted caramel flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Cream cheese creates a tangy, creamy frosting that pairs perfectly with the caramel.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Aids in creating a smooth and spreadable frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar – For a sweet, thick consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – To bring all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon salted caramel sauce – Enhances the flavor and richness of the frosting.
How to Make Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Cupcake Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper cupcake liners for easy removal after baking. This ensures that your cupcakes come out perfectly without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. In a separate, larger mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with ½ cup whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as that can affect the texture of your cupcakes.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 of the way. Bake the cupcakes for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
How to Make Salted Caramel Sauce from Scratch
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup brown sugar, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring to prevent it from burning.
Step 2: Add the Cream and Flavorings
Slowly pour in ½ cup heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the mixture come to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Let the caramel cool to room temperature before drizzling over your cupcakes.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a large bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar and Flavoring
Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon salted caramel sauce to the frosting for a deliciously rich flavor. Beat until fluffy and smooth.
How to Assemble Your Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, use a piping bag or a knife to generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting. Drizzle the cooled homemade salted caramel sauce over the frosting for a glossy, irresistible finish. Optionally, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top for that perfect sweet and salty flavor!
Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cupcakes and salted caramel sauce a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container. Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
- Storage: Keep the cupcakes at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
- Customize: Add a sprinkle of crushed toffee bits or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try!
These Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are an ultimate treat for any occasion. From their tender, moist texture to the rich, creamy frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for dessert tables, birthday parties, or simply a sweet indulgence when you need a pick-me-up.
Whether you’re a fan of salted caramel or just love the combination of sweet and salty, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try them today and enjoy the irresistible flavors of these mouthwatering cupcakes!
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