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Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Welcome to the exquisite world of Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes — the dessert that combines sweetness, creaminess, and a delightful pinch of salt to create true magic in your mouth! These cupcakes are not just visually appealing with their swirls of frosting and decadent drizzle; they are also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. As you sink your teeth into one of these fluffy treats, you’ll be greeted with a rich cream cheese filling and a luscious salted caramel drizzle that takes the flavor to a whole new level. Did you know that salted caramel has gained immense popularity over the past decade? It seems like everyone is putting it on everything, and for good reason! It perfectly balances sweetness and saltiness. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or just want to indulge in something special after dinner, these cupcakes are a perfect choice. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them a fantastic option for families and baking novices alike. So, why not bring a little sweetness into your life? Let’s dive into this delicious dessert!
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Ingredients
  

  • 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
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp heavy cream as needed for consistency
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt or to taste

Instructions
 

  • Let’s break this down into simple steps to get you baking these delightful cupcakes:
  • Make the Cupcakes:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In another larger bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour.
  • Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  • Mix in the caramel sauce, sea salt, and powdered sugar until creamy.
  • Remove the centers of the cooled cupcakes and fill them with this luscious cream cheese mixture.
  • Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • Beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  • Add vanilla and powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Gradually add heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Pipe the frosting onto the filled cupcakes with a star tip.
  • Drizzle with Salted Caramel:
  • Warm the caramel slightly if needed, then mix in the sea salt.
  • Drizzle generously over the frosted cupcakes for that perfect finishing touch!
  • What to Serve Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes With
  • These Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes can be enjoyed on their own, but if you're looking to create a delightful dessert spread, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a rich chocolate mousse. You might also want to pour some freshly brewed coffee or caramel-flavored latte to complement the sweet notes of the cupcakes. Together, they’ll create a dessert round-up that is sure to impress your guests!
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
  • To elevate your cupcake game, here are a few handy tips:
  • Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy effect.
  • Timing Adjustments: Don’t overbake the cupcakes; keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time for the best texture.
  • Avoiding Common Mistakes: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • If you have any leftover cupcakes (though they might disappear quickly), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze them, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container; they’ll stay fresh for up to a month. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes or pop one in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked taste once more.
  • Now that you have everything you need to create these spectacular Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Enjoy the process and even more the delightful results! Happy baking!