Gooey Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with Gooey Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes. These soft and fluffy cupcakes are filled with a luscious cream cheese mixture and topped with a rich caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of sea salt, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Ingredients

1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup caramel sauce
8 oz cream cheese, softened for filling
1/4 cup powdered sugar for filling
1/4 tsp sea salt for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
3. Add the flour and baking powder, stirring just until combined.
4. For the cream cheese filling, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
5. Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter, then add a small spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center. Top with the remaining batter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops are golden and the cupcakes are set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty twist.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 cupcakes. The total preparation and cooking time is about 1 hour, including cooling time.

Variations

• Substitute the caramel sauce with chocolate sauce for a chocolate-filled version.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice flavor.
• Top with whipped cream or additional cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
• Incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, microwave briefly for about 10-15 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly.
2. What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
   You can make your own caramel sauce or substitute it with chocolate or butterscotch sauce.
3. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
   Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
4. How do I know when the cupcakes are done?
   The cupcakes should spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
5. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
   Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until serving.
6. What kind of flour should I use?
   All-purpose flour works best for this recipe.
7. Can I omit the sea salt?
   Yes, if you prefer a purely sweet cupcake, you can skip the salt topping.
8. What can I use instead of butter?
   You can substitute with margarine or a non-dairy butter alternative.
9. How can I make these cupcakes more chocolatey?
   Add cocoa powder to the batter or use chocolate chips.
10. Can I decorate these cupcakes?
    Yes! Feel free to add sprinkles, nuts, or chocolate shavings for decoration.

Conclusion

Gooey Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combine rich flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create these scrumptious cupcakes that are sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the sweet and salty bliss in every bite!

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