Introduction
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and salty with these Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes. Each bite is a heavenly blend of moist, fluffy cupcakes, creamy cream cheese filling, and luscious salted caramel topping. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or a decadent dessert at home, these cupcakes will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Packed with rich flavors and textures, they’re surprisingly simple to make and even easier to devour.
Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes
- Decadent Flavor Profile: Combines sweet caramel with tangy cream cheese and a hint of sea salt for a gourmet taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for birthdays, holidays, or just a fancy treat for yourself.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or use store-bought caramel for a quick fix.
- High-Impact Dessert: A luxurious dessert that looks like it came straight from a bakery!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
For Garnish:
- Extra sea salt (for sprinkling)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cupcakes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the tip snipped off.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the batter.
- Pipe a small dollop of cream cheese filling into the center of each cupcake.
- Cover the filling with more batter, ensuring it’s fully enclosed.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the edge of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely.
4. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color.
- Carefully add the butter and stir until fully incorporated.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. (Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.)
- Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool before using.
5. Decorate the Cupcakes
- Drizzle the cooled salted caramel sauce over the cupcakes.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top.
- Add a swirl of whipped cream if desired, then drizzle more caramel on top.
Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
- Chill the Caramel: Allow the caramel sauce to cool and thicken slightly before drizzling to prevent it from sliding off the cupcakes.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter, cream cheese, and eggs for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Avoid Overbaking: Check the cupcakes a few minutes early to prevent them from drying out.
- Use Quality Sea Salt: Choose coarse or flaky sea salt for the best flavor contrast with the caramel.
- Store Properly: Keep these cupcakes refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Cupcake, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are the perfect blend of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a dinner party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cupcakes are sure to steal the show. Easy to make yet elegant in presentation, they’re a dessert that feels as luxurious as it tastes.
Pin this recipe for your next baking day and impress your friends and family with bakery-quality cupcakes made right in your kitchen!