Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re ready to indulge in a dessert that perfectly balances rich cream cheese softness with luscious, buttery caramel, you’ve come to the right place. This Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe is a true celebration of texture and flavor, where the tangy cream cheese meets the irresistible sweet and salty notes of caramel in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy gathering or just to treat yourself, these cupcakes bring a beautiful twist to a classic favorite, guaranteed to warm hearts and delight taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how each one brings something special to the party. From fluffy flour to velvety butter and of course, that magical salted caramel sauce, these essentials combine to create unforgettable flavor and texture.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The perfect base for a tender yet structured cupcake crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay light.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for a perfect lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and moistness to the batter and frosting.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds that signature creamy tang that’s essential to this recipe.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering, ensuring just the right amount of sugariness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture and structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A warm, fragrant note that elevates the cupcake flavor.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Provides tenderness and a slight tang to the cake.
• 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce: The star ingredient that swirls through the batter for that irresistible salty-sweet marbled delight.
• For the frosting: 8 ounces cream cheese, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to tie it all together.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to make sure your cupcakes come out easily and keep their charming shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed for consistent texture and flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is vital for that silky cupcake crumb and smooth frosting.

Step 4: Add Sugar

Incorporate the granulated sugar into the creamed mixture, beating until it’s smooth and fully combined for a sweet, tender cupcake base.

Step 5: Beat in Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. This careful folding builds structure and moisture, ensuring a beautiful rise.

Step 6: Add Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its signature warm vanilla scent and flavor, setting the stage for the caramel contrast.

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 8: Stir in Buttermilk

Pour in the buttermilk and mix gently until smooth — this tenderizes the crumb and gives a subtle tang that complements the cream cheese.

Step 9: Add Remaining Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the rest of the flour mixture, mixing until just blended for a tender but structured cupcake.

Step 10: Fold in Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the batter and gently fold it in with a spatula to create irresistible marbled swirls that will wow your guests.

Step 11: Fill Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the liners, filling each about two-thirds full to leave space for rising without overflow.

Step 12: Bake

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be patient—this part creates that perfect cupcake texture.

Step 13: Cool Cupcakes

Let your cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This step prevents the frosting from melting off the warm cakes.

Step 14: Make the Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, forming the luscious base for your frosting.

Step 15: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually mix in powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating until fluffy and light—this creates the perfect balance of sweetness and structure.

Step 16: Mix in Salted Caramel and Vanilla

Blend in the salted caramel sauce and vanilla extract to layer in that rich, salty sweetness you love.

Step 17: Add a Pinch of Salt

The pinch of salt enhances and balances the sweetness in the frosting for a deeply satisfying finish.

Step 18: Frost the Cupcakes

Once cooled, frost each cupcake generously with the salted caramel cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag for a beautiful presentation.

Step 19: Add a Caramel Drizzle

Drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes for that final touch of glamour and decadence.

Step 20: Serve and Enjoy

Gather your friends or indulge solo and enjoy every blissful bite of these salted caramel cream cheese cupcakes!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or chopped toasted pecans on top of the caramel drizzle adds an irresistible crunch and another layer of flavor contrast that will elevate your cupcake game.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a cup of fresh coffee or creamy chai tea—both drinks complement the richness without overpowering the delicate cream cheese and caramel notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cupcakes on rustic wooden trays or vintage cake stands adorned with caramel-dipped pretzel sticks for a playful nod to the salted caramel theme. You could also place a small caramel-filled chocolate on each cupcake for extra surprise and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your salted caramel cream cheese cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay moist and fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frosted cupcakes freeze best when individually wrapped and stored in a single layer. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For the freshest taste, allow frozen cupcakes to thaw fully in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before enjoying. Avoid microwaving the frosting as it may melt. For unfrosted cupcakes, a few seconds in the microwave can warm them up nicely.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought salted caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Using store-bought salted caramel sauce is a great shortcut and works perfectly in this Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe. Just ensure it’s a quality sauce with a nice balance of sweet and saltiness.

Is it necessary to use cream cheese in both the batter and frosting?

Yes, the cream cheese adds a unique tang and richness that define these cupcakes. Using it in both the batter and frosting creates a harmonious flavor profile that makes this recipe stand out.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk, make a quick substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

How do I achieve the marbled effect with salted caramel?

After mixing the batter, drizzle the salted caramel sauce over it and gently fold with a spatula just a few times. Too much mixing will blend the caramel in; light folding keeps those beautiful swirls intact.

Can these cupcakes be made gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures like regular flour; however, results may vary. Using a blend with xanthan gum usually gives better texture for cupcakes.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know all the wonderful details about this Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe, I hope you’re inspired to dive into your kitchen and make these sweet treasures. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply treating yourself to a moment of pure bliss. Happy baking and even happier eating!

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