There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a gooey salted caramel cupcakes. The soft, moist cake cradles a rich filling of ooey-gooey caramel that tantalizes your taste buds while a sprinkle of sea salt elevates it to an irresistible indulgence. You can practically hear the angels singing with each bite!
These little delights are perfect for any occasion birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a sweet pick-me-up. I still remember the first time I attempted to make these heavenly treats; let’s just say my kitchen looked like a scene from a baking disaster movie, but the end result was worth every sticky counter and flour cloud!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These gooey salted caramel cupcakes are easy to whip up on a whim and require minimal effort
- They burst with flavor and create a stunning centerpiece at gatherings
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with different fillings or toppings based on your preference
I still laugh when I recall my niece’s eyes widening as she took her first bite it was pure joy wrapped in chocolatey goodness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it well to avoid lumps in your batter.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor without added sweetness.
- Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise; check expiration dates before starting.
- Salt: A pinch balances sweetness; don’t skip it unless you’re feeling adventurous.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is your go-to; it sweetens and helps with texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a rich base; feel free to use high-quality for better flavor.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for optimal mixing and rising.
- Milk: Whole milk makes the batter creamy and luscious; low-fat options won’t give you that same richness.
- Caramel Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade adds an extra touch of love!
- Sea Salt Flakes: These are essential for that salty-sweet punch on top!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners this is where the magic happens!
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until combined. It should smell like chocolatey heaven already!
In another bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy. This is where patience pays off about 3-5 minutes should do.
Add in eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition until fully incorporated. Your mixture should look smooth and creamy like melted chocolate ice cream!
Now gradually mix in the dry ingredients along with milk until combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cupcakes light and airy!
Spoon half of the batter into each cupcake liner. Add about one teaspoon of caramel sauce on top before covering with the remaining batter this is where all the gooey goodness lies!
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean (but don’t worry if there’s some oozy caramel). Let them cool completely before moving on to frosting.
To make frosting (optional), beat some additional butter with powdered sugar and a splash of milk until fluffy and smooth. Frost those cooled beauties generously!
Finally, drizzle more caramel sauce on top and sprinkle sea salt flakes over each cupcake. Allow yourself to marvel at their beauty before devouring!
Enjoy every last crumb of these heavenly gooey salted caramel cupcakes you deserve it!
You Must Know
- Gooey salted caramel cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with a tender crumb
- They’re perfect for celebrations or just because, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone swoon
- Don’t forget to lick the bowl; it’s part of the fun!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the caramel sauce first, allowing it to cool while you make the batter. This ensures a smooth mixing process and layers of flavor in each bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular flour for almond flour for a gluten-free twist. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To enjoy later, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive their gooey goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making gooey salted caramel cupcakes, be sure to use high-quality chocolate for richer flavors
- Avoid overmixing the batter; this keeps the cupcakes fluffy and light
- Lastly, let the caramel cool completely before drizzling it on top for a beautiful presentation!
Sometimes I think my friends enjoy these cupcakes more than they enjoy my company! The joy on their faces when they dive into that gooey center is priceless and makes baking worthwhile.
FAQ
What makes these cupcakes gooey?
The combination of melted caramel and moist batter creates that irresistible gooey texture.
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramel saves time but homemade offers richer flavor.
How do I prevent overbaking my cupcakes?
Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes; they should spring back when touched lightly.
Gooey Salted Caramel Cupcakes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
Description
Gooey salted caramel cupcakes are a decadent treat featuring a moist chocolate cake filled with rich caramel and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- Baking Powder
- Granulated Sugar
- Unsalted Butter
- Eggs
- Whole Milk
- Caramel Sauce
- Sea Salt Flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and milk until just combined.
- Pour half the batter into each liner, add caramel sauce, then cover with remaining batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before frosting with buttercream and drizzling additional caramel on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (75g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
