Caramel cupcakes recipe

Caramel cupcakes offer a delightful blend of sweet caramel flavor and moist cake texture, making them a favorite indulgence for dessert lovers of all ages. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a treat, mastering this recipe will elevate your baking skills and satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow this comprehensive guide to create irresistible caramel cupcakes that will surely become a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Caramel Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional, to taste)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Prepare ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for even mixing.

Step 2: Making the Cupcake Batter

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
2. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in the caramel sauce until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Baking the Cupcakes

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
3. Cool the cupcakes in the muffin tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Making the Caramel Buttercream Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth using an electric mixer on medium speed.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and fluffy.
3. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract to the frosting mixture, mixing until well combined. Taste and add a pinch of salt if desired for a salted caramel flavor.
4. If needed, adjust the consistency of the frosting by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or a small amount of milk to thin.

Step 5: Frosting the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost each cupcake with the caramel buttercream frosting using a piping bag or offset spatula.
2. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for decoration, if desired, or sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a salty-sweet contrast.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve caramel cupcakes as a decadent dessert for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
• Pair with coffee or hot chocolate to complement the rich caramel flavor.

Conclusion:

Baking caramel cupcakes is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a delectable treat loved by many. With their moist cake crumb and luscious caramel buttercream, these cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends. Follow these steps and tips to bake caramel cupcakes that will satisfy cravings and bring smiles to everyone who enjoys them.