Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are the sweet indulgence you’ve been dreaming of. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, fluffy cupcake drizzled with rich salted caramel, balanced by a creamy, tangy filling. This delectable treat is perfect for a range of occasions – from a cozy family gathering to a festive celebration or even just a well-deserved treat for yourself. Having made these cupcakes countless times, I can guarantee they will leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to take a bite.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are ample reasons to whip up a batch of these Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes. For starters, they are incredibly quick and easy to make – perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking escapades with little ones. The combination of flavors is an irresistible treat, with the sweet, savory, and creamy elements harmoniously coming together in each bite.
“Honestly, the best cupcakes I’ve ever made! The cream cheese filling is to die for, and the salted caramel adds a divine touch. My family keeps asking for more!” – A satisfied baker.
These cupcakes are budget-friendly, as they utilize a simple box cake mix along with a few basic ingredients. Plus, they make an elegant dessert that feels gourmet without requiring extensive baking skills. Serve them at brunch or for dessert, and you’ll surely be the star of the gathering.
Preparing Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Making these cupcakes is a delightful experience from start to finish. You’ll begin with a simple box cake mix as your foundation, followed by a luscious cream cheese filling, and top it all off with an irresistible salted caramel whipped cream. This step-by-step overview will guide you through how easy it is to bring this sweet masterpiece to life.
What you’ll need
To create these dreamy cupcakes, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
You can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone for a different flavor or use dairy-free alternatives if needed.
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to bake? Follow these easy steps to create your Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box, and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box, adding the 1 tsp of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the cake batter; then, add a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture and top with more cake batter until each liner is filled about two-thirds full.
- Bake according to the cake mix package instructions or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cupcakes cool, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce and salt until well combined.
- Once the cupcakes are cooled, frost them with the salted caramel whipped cream and drizzle extra salted caramel on top before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
To truly enjoy your Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes, consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a touch of brightness. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. For an elevated dessert experience, consider serving them on a cake stand with a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to five days. If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and top with fresh whipped cream.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
- Don’t overfill your cupcake liners to prevent overflowing during baking.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the whipped cream.
Creative twists
These cupcakes are so versatile! Experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa powder to the batter for chocolate-flavored cupcakes or substitute the salted caramel sauce with chocolate ganache for a rich twist. You can also swap out the whipped cream for a cream cheese frosting for an even creamier texture.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make these cupcakes?
The total time, including preparation and baking, is around 45 minutes, making it a quick and rewarding baking project.
Can I use sugar substitutes?
Certainly! You can replace granulated sugar with suitable sugar substitutes in the cake mix and frosting, depending on your dietary needs.
How do I ensure my cupcakes stay moist?
Avoid overbaking and store them correctly in an airtight container to keep them moist and fresh longer.
By following this guide, you will create show-stopping Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes that everyone will adore! Enjoy your baking journey and the compliments that come with it!
Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box, and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box, adding the 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the cake batter; then, add a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture and top with more cake batter until each liner is filled about two-thirds full.
- Bake according to the cake mix package instructions or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cupcakes cool, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce and salt until well combined.
- Once the cupcakes are cooled, frost them with the salted caramel whipped cream and drizzle extra salted caramel on top before serving.
