Salted Caramel Cupcakes are the perfect treat for any occasion, from birthdays to just-because celebrations. These delightful cupcakes combine a light and fluffy texture with rich salted caramel flavor, making them a standout dessert. The best part? They’re easy to make using a box cake mix! With a luscious salted caramel filling and an ultra-thick frosting, these cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Using a box cake mix simplifies the process, allowing even novice bakers to create delicious cupcakes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet and salty in these cupcakes provides a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where dessert is needed.
- Decadent Frosting: The thick and fluffy caramel frosting elevates these cupcakes to gourmet status.
- Impressive Presentation: Topping with flakey sea salt adds a beautiful finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cupcake-making experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cupcake pan
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly and evenly, resulting in fluffy cupcakes.
- Cupcake pan: Provides the shape for your cupcakes, helping them rise perfectly during baking.
- Cooling rack: Allows your cupcakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess at the bottom.
Ingredients
For the Cupcake Batter
- 1 box white cake mix
- 3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup milk
For the Filling and Frosting
- ½ cup Salted caramel (about 1 teaspoon per cupcake for filling)
- 1 ½ cups salted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 2/3 cup salted caramel
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
For Topping
- Flakey sea salt (such as Maldon’s)
How to Make Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the box white cake mix and instant vanilla pudding.
- Add in the room temperature eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and milk.
- Mix on medium speed until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
- Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
- Fill each liner about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool Completely
After baking, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Fill with Salted Caramel
Once cooled, use a small knife or cupcake corer to create a small hole in the center of each cupcake. Fill each hole with about one teaspoon of salted caramel.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat together softened salted butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
- Add vanilla extract, heavy whipping cream, and continue mixing until fluffy.
Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes
Using a piping bag or spatula, generously frost each filled cupcake with the caramel frosting.
Step 8: Finish with Sea Salt
Sprinkle flakey sea salt on top of each frosted cupcake for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Salted Caramel Cupcakes!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Salted caramel cupcakes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
For a Classic Dessert Experience
- Serve with Coffee – Pairing these cupcakes with a rich cup of coffee enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy dessert option.
- Add Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on the side adds a creamy contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
At Parties and Gatherings
- Cupcake Stand Display – Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.
- Themed Decorations – Decorate your serving table with festive decorations that match the flavor profile, such as gold accents for a touch of elegance.
For Special Occasions
- Garnish with Fresh Fruit – Adding slices of fresh apples or pears provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cupcake.
- Custom Toppers – Use themed cupcake toppers for birthdays, holidays, or other celebrations to personalize each treat.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Perfecting salted caramel cupcakes is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensuring eggs and sour cream are at room temperature helps achieve a better batter consistency.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Fill Cupcakes Generously – Make sure each cupcake gets enough salted caramel filling; about one teaspoon per cupcake is perfect.
- Chill the Frosting Slightly – If your frosting is too soft, chilling it for a few minutes will make it easier to pipe onto your cupcakes.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Salted caramel cupcakes can be paired with several side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent choices:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses, especially creamy Brie or sharp cheddar, can balance the rich flavor.
- Chocolate Fondue – Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits or marshmallows alongside their cupcakes.
- Caramel Sauce Dipping Station – Provide different types of caramel sauces for dipping; this enhances the salted caramel flavor.
- Mini Cheesecakes – These bite-sized desserts will please those who enjoy variety while still keeping things sweet.
- Coffee Bar – Create a coffee station with various blends and creamers to enhance each cupcake’s flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salted Caramel Cupcakes can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are key pitfalls to steer clear of.
- Skipping the Room Temperature Eggs: Using cold eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Ignoring Pudding Mix Instructions: Some may think adding pudding is optional, but it enhances moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make cupcakes dense. Blend just until combined for a light and airy cupcake.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is precise! Use measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient amounts to achieve perfect results.
- Underbaking or Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cupcakes while baking. Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Salted Caramel Cupcakes
- Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salted Caramel Cupcakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), warm cupcakes on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Salted Caramel Cupcakes.
How do I make Salted Caramel Cupcakes from scratch?
You can create homemade cupcakes using flour, sugar, butter, and eggs instead of box mix. Just follow similar proportions with additional salted caramel ingredients.
Can I use another type of cake mix?
Yes! While white cake mix works best for this recipe, you can also try yellow or vanilla cake mixes for different flavors.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk. Both alternatives will keep the cupcakes moist.
How do I store leftover Salted Caramel Cupcakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These Salted Caramel Cupcakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different fillings or toppings based on your preferences. They make a perfect treat for any occasion, so why not give them a try?
Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Indulge in the heavenly delight of Salted Caramel Cupcakes, a perfect blend of fluffy cake and rich, sweet-salty flavor that will elevate any celebration. These cupcakes are simple to make using just a box cake mix, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. With a luscious salted caramel filling and an ultra-thick frosting topped with flakey sea salt, they are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether it’s a birthday party or an afternoon pick-me-up, these decadent cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- 3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup salted caramel (for filling)
- 1 ½ cups salted butter (softened)
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 2/3 cup salted caramel (for frosting)
- Flakey sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix and pudding.
- Add eggs, sour cream, oil, and milk; mix until smooth.
- Line cupcake pan with liners and fill each two-thirds full.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cupcakes before creating holes in the center for filling.
- Fill each hole with salted caramel.
- Beat butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in caramel and cream until fluffy.
- Frost each cupcake generously and sprinkle with flakey sea salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (85g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
