Caramel Treat Cupcakes Recipe

Caramel lovers will agree that few desserts match the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel paired with a soft, fluffy cupcake. Caramel treat cupcakes are indulgent yet simple to prepare, making them perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or a weekend baking project. With a tender vanilla sponge, a luscious caramel filling, and a smooth caramel frosting, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the cupcakes

• 200 g all-purpose flour
• 150 g granulated sugar
• 125 g unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 120 ml whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the caramel filling

• 150 g soft caramels or caramel treat (dulce de leche)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (to loosen if needed)

For the caramel frosting

• 150 g unsalted butter, softened
• 250 g icing sugar
• 4 tbsp caramel treat or sauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for consistency)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a 12-hole muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.
6. Spoon batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
7. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Add the caramel filling

1. Once the cupcakes are cool, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake.
2. Fill each hole with about a teaspoon of caramel treat. Replace the cut-out top if desired.

Step 3: Make the frosting

1. Beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add icing sugar, mixing on low speed.
3. Stir in caramel treat and vanilla extract.
4. Adjust consistency with a little heavy cream if needed. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Frost and decorate

1. Pipe or spread frosting generously over each cupcake.
2. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce for a glossy finish.
3. Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt or top with a small caramel candy.

Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
• If using caramel treat straight from the can, whisk it with a little cream to make it easier to spoon.
• For a stronger flavor, sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.

Caramel treat cupcakes combine light sponge, gooey centers, and silky frosting into one irresistible dessert. They are easy enough for beginner bakers but indulgent enough for special occasions. With their golden drizzle and melt-in-your-mouth flavor, these cupcakes will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.