Welcome to your new favorite treat: Rich Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes! If you’re a fan of caramel and coffee, these cupcakes are going to win you over in a heartbeat. Rich, buttery, and infused with the bold flavor of coffee, topped with a velvety caramel buttercream that’s to die for, these Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes are a must-try! Imagine indulging in a fluffy coffee-infused cupcake that’s perfectly sweetened and crowned with a swirl of smooth caramel buttercream. It’s the ideal pick-me-up for coffee and dessert lovers alike.
These cupcakes are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy afternoon with friends or a weekend baking project, they’ll surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Introduction
Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes bring together the deep, aromatic flavor of brewed coffee and the decadent sweetness of caramel in one irresistible treat. Inspired by the beloved combination of coffee and caramel in drinks, these cupcakes are an indulgent twist on a classic dessert.
This recipe is ideal for those who love the warmth and richness of caramel paired with the boldness of coffee. The cupcakes have a soft, tender crumb, making them a delightful treat for any coffee lover. Whether you’re serving these at a gathering or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these cupcakes will satisfy any sweet craving. Plus, they’re easy to make at home!
Ingredients for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes
To make these rich and delectable Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Cupcake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Sea salt flakes for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter and milk with almond or oat milk.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used to make these cupcakes gluten-free.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a spiced twist on the original recipe.
How to Make Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes – Step by Step
Here’s how to make Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes step by step:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This will ensure the cupcakes bake evenly and don’t stick to the tin.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensure a light, fluffy texture.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the cooled brewed coffee and milk. Start by adding a third of the dry ingredients, then half of the coffee and milk mixture, and continue until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the cupcakes tender and moist.
Step 5: Fill and Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Caramel Coffee Buttercream
While the cupcakes cool, make the buttercream. Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth. Mix in the cooled brewed coffee, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 3-5 minutes to ensure a light, fluffy consistency.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe the caramel coffee buttercream on top using a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle additional caramel sauce over each cupcake and sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a gourmet finish.
Helpful Tips for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes
For the best results, consider these helpful tips when baking your Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps them combine more easily, leading to a smoother batter and fluffier cupcakes.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour, mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in dense, tough cupcakes.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before adding the buttercream, or the frosting will melt.
Cooking Tips for the Best Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes
To take your Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes to the next level, follow these tips:
- Caramel Drizzle: Warm the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling for a smooth, glossy finish.
- Sea Salt Flakes: Adding a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Coffee Strength: For a more pronounced coffee flavor, use a strong brew or espresso instead of regular coffee.
Serving Suggestions for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes
These Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes are perfect on their own but can also be paired with:
- Beverages: Serve with a cup of hot coffee or a latte to complement the coffee flavor in the cupcakes. For a summer treat, pair them with iced caramel coffee.
- Sides: If serving at a party, consider pairing these cupcakes with a light fruit salad or chocolate-dipped strawberries to balance the sweetness.
For a visually appealing presentation, display the cupcakes on a transparent glass plate and drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top. The glistening caramel will catch the light and make these cupcakes look irresistible!
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Value of Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes: These cupcakes are indulgent, but worth every bite! Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per cupcake:
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 3g
Storage and Leftovers for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes
To store these Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes, follow these steps:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cupcakes within 1-2 days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cupcakes in the fridge for up to 5 days. The buttercream may harden slightly, so allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and frost them fresh!
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes
1. Can I make the cupcakes in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and frost them just before serving.
2. Can I substitute the coffee with something else?
If you prefer not to use coffee, you can replace it with milk or water. For a different flavor, try using cocoa powder mixed with water to give the cupcakes a mocha twist.
3. How do I keep the buttercream from being too sweet?
To balance the sweetness, add a pinch of sea salt to the buttercream or use unsweetened caramel sauce.
4. Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
Related Recipes for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcake Lovers
If you loved this recipe, here are two more delightful cupcake recipes to try:
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me in making these delightful Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes. I hope you enjoy baking and tasting these rich, coffee-flavored cupcakes topped with the most luscious caramel buttercream. Don’t forget to drizzle them with extra caramel and sprinkle with sea salt for that ultimate flavor boost!
I’d love to hear how your cupcakes turned out—feel free to share your experience or any variations you tried in the comments below. Happy baking!
Print
Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes with Rich Frosting
Description
Welcome to your new favorite treat: Rich Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes! If you’re a fan of caramel and coffee, these cupcakes are going to win you over in a heartbeat. Rich, buttery, and infused with the bold flavor of coffee, topped with a velvety caramel buttercream that’s to die for, these Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes are a must-try! Imagine indulging in a fluffy coffee-infused cupcake that’s perfectly sweetened and crowned with a swirl of smooth caramel buttercream. It’s the ideal pick-me-up for coffee and dessert lovers alike.
These cupcakes are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy afternoon with friends or a weekend baking project, they’ll surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Cupcake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Sea salt flakes for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter and milk with almond or oat milk.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used to make these cupcakes gluten-free.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a spiced twist on the original recipe.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This will ensure the cupcakes bake evenly and don’t stick to the tin.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensure a light, fluffy texture.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the cooled brewed coffee and milk. Start by adding a third of the dry ingredients, then half of the coffee and milk mixture, and continue until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the cupcakes tender and moist.
Step 5: Fill and Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Caramel Coffee Buttercream
While the cupcakes cool, make the buttercream. Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth. Mix in the cooled brewed coffee, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 3-5 minutes to ensure a light, fluffy consistency.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe the caramel coffee buttercream on top using a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle additional caramel sauce over each cupcake and sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a gourmet finish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps them combine more easily, leading to a smoother batter and fluffier cupcakes.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour, mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in dense, tough cupcakes.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before adding the buttercream, or the frosting will melt.
