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Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cupcakes with Rich Frosting

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

Scale

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.

Notes

  • 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.