Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cupcakes

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.

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Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and continue beating until light and fluffy.

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Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into an amber-colored liquid.
2. Carefully add the butter, stirring until melted.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. The mixture will bubble up—keep stirring until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before using.

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Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
2. Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the frosting.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor.

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Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

✔ Sweet & Salty Perfection – The balance of caramel sweetness and sea salt enhances every bite.
✔ Creamy & Rich Frosting – Cream cheese frosting adds a velvety, tangy contrast to the cupcakes.
✔ Easy & Impressive – These cupcakes look gourmet but are simple to make at home!
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for birthdays, holidays, or an indulgent treat.

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Baking Tips for Success

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures smooth mixing and a fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes—stir until just combined.
• Cool the Cupcakes Completely: Warm cupcakes will melt the frosting.
• Store Properly: Keep cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are the ultimate indulgence, offering a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced flavor experience. The smooth frosting, combined with the buttery caramel drizzle and fluffy cupcake base, makes these an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is a must-try.

So grab your whisk and get ready to impress with these heavenly cupcakes! 🍰✨