Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes

Name: Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and salted caramel with these delightful cupcakes.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-02T23:42:29.642Z

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes are the perfect treat for any chocolate lover. The blend of rich chocolate cake and creamy salted caramel frosting makes them irresistible.

        Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with decadent salted caramel
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Salty

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweet and salty flavors. The rich chocolate base provides a deep, indulgent taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy salted caramel frosting. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and a hint of saltiness, making these cupcakes irresistible for any dessert lover.

The addition of sea salt in the frosting enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring that the sweetness doesn't overpower the rich chocolate. This unique combination not only excites the taste buds but also elevates the cupcake experience, making them a standout choice for gatherings and celebrations.

A Moist and Fluffy Texture

One of the key reasons these cupcakes are so beloved is their moist and fluffy texture. The combination of ingredients, including unsalted butter and milk, creates a light yet rich cupcake that melts in your mouth. Each cupcake is baked to perfection, ensuring that they remain soft and tender from the first bite to the last.

To achieve such a delightful texture, it’s important to mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so be gentle! This attention to detail ensures that you’ll be rewarded with cupcakes that are not only delicious but also visually appealing, with a lovely dome shape.

Versatile for Any Occasion

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes are perfect for a variety of occasions, from birthday parties to holiday celebrations or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Their elegant appearance and delightful flavors make them suitable for both casual and formal events. You can easily adapt the presentation to match the theme of your gathering, making them a versatile addition to your dessert table.

Moreover, these cupcakes can be made ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. This makes them an excellent option for busy bakers who want to impress their guests without the last-minute rush.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

For the Salted Caramel Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup salted caramel sauce
1/2 tsp sea salt
1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Gather all your ingredients and get ready to bake!

Instructions

Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with liners. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and beat until smooth. Mix in the salted caramel sauce and sea salt.

If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag to frost each cupcake with the salted caramel frosting. Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce on top for extra flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes!

Storage Tips

To keep your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay moist for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you have any leftover salted caramel frosting, store it separately in the refrigerator. It can be used for other desserts or as a delicious dip for fruits. Just give it a quick stir before using, and you’ll have a tasty treat ready to enjoy!

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes! Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for an extra burst of chocolate flavor. You could also experiment with different types of frosting, such as a whipped cream topping or a chocolate ganache, if you want to switch things up.

For a fun twist, try incorporating different flavored caramel sauces, such as bourbon or vanilla. This adds a unique touch to each batch of cupcakes, making them a fun surprise for your guests. Additionally, garnishing with sea salt flakes or crushed nuts can add visual appeal and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! You can use vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting if you prefer.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cupcakes in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs if you're looking for a vegan option.