Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
For the Salted Caramel Filling:
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, cubed
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
½ tsp sea salt
For the Caramel Buttercream:
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
2 ½ cups (300g) powdered sugar
½ cup (120ml) caramel sauce (from the filling)
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp sea salt
1-2 tbsp heavy cream (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
Making the Cupcakes:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla extract.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
Fill cupcake liners ⅔ full and bake for 18-20 minutes. Let cool completely.
Making the Salted Caramel Filling:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar, stirring constantly until golden brown.
Add butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously (be cautious—it will bubble up!).
Stir in sea salt and let cool before using.
Filling the Cupcakes:
Cut a small hole in the center of each cooled cupcake.
Fill each cavity with a spoonful of salted caramel.
Making the Caramel Buttercream:
Beat butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Pour in caramel sauce, vanilla, and sea salt, beating until fluffy. If needed, add heavy cream for a silkier texture.
Pipe onto cupcakes and drizzle with extra caramel sauce.
Expert Tips for Perfection:
✔ Don’t overmix the batter—this ensures a tender crumb.
✔ Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
✔ Monitor the caramel closely—burnt caramel can ruin the flavor.
✔ Top with flaky sea salt for an elevated gourmet touch.
Enjoy these indulgent Salted Caramel Cupcakes