These Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes are the ultimate fusion of cozy spice and rich indulgence. The soft cinnamon-spiced cake is topped with a swirl of buttery salted caramel frosting, creating a sweet-and-salty contrast that’s impossible to resist. Each bite feels like a warm hug and a treat all at once—perfect for fall gatherings, birthday celebrations, or any day that needs a little extra sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes
Warm cinnamon flavor with luscious caramel frosting.
Balanced sweetness with a hint of salt.
Moist, fluffy, and bakery-worthy.
Perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting.
Pairs beautifully with apple cider or coffee.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes
Creating these Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes is a breeze with the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cupcakes, providing structure and texture.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps your cupcakes rise to fluffy perfection.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for that extra lift.
Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a cozy aroma, making every bite comforting.
Unsalted butter: For richness and moisture; softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and contributes to a tender crumb.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this classic flavor elevates the overall taste.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the cupcakes tender.
Salted caramel sauce: The star of the show! Use store-bought or homemade for that rich, sweet flavor.
Powdered sugar: For the glaze, giving it that smooth finish.
Milk: Helps achieve the right consistency for the glaze.
Extra salted caramel sauce: For drizzling on top, because more is always better!
Sea salt: A pinch for garnish, enhancing the salted caramel flavor.
Feel free to get creative!
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
If you’re out of buttermilk, sour cream can be a great substitute for a denser texture.
Exact quantities are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
While it warms up, line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
This simple step ensures your cupcakes come out easily and look great!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
This blend creates the perfect base for your cupcakes, ensuring they rise beautifully and taste amazing.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together.
Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
This step is crucial for a tender cupcake texture!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a delightful depth of flavor to your batter.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
This method helps keep the batter smooth and prevents lumps.
Mix until just combined for the best texture!
Step 6: Fold in Salted Caramel
Gently fold in ½ cup of the salted caramel sauce until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
This step adds that rich, sweet flavor that makes these cupcakes irresistible.
Step 7: Fill Cupcake Liners
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
This ensures they have room to rise without overflowing.
A little mess is part of the fun!
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cupcakes in your preheated oven for 18-20 minutes.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
The smell will be heavenly!
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While they cool, mix the powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze.
Step 10: Drizzle and Garnish
Once the cupcakes are cool, drizzle the glaze over the tops.
Finish with an extra drizzle of salted caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt for that perfect touch.
Your Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes are now ready to impress!
Tips for Success
Always measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results.
Use room temperature eggs and butter for easier mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; it can lead to dense cupcakes.
Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Let the cupcakes cool completely before glazing to prevent melting.
Equipment Needed
Muffin tin: Essential for baking your cupcakes; a silicone mold can be a fun alternative.
Mixing bowls: Use a set of various sizes; a large bowl is key for the batter.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial; a kitchen scale is a great alternative.
Cooling rack: Helps cool cupcakes evenly; a plate can suffice if you’re in a hurry.
Variations
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist on these cupcakes.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based butter and milk for a vegan-friendly treat.
Spiced Up: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more complex flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or espresso complements the sweetness perfectly.
Ice Cream Delight: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Festive Presentation: Arrange on a decorative platter and sprinkle with cinnamon for a charming touch.
Seasonal Fruits: Fresh berries or sliced apples add a refreshing contrast to the rich cupcakes.
FAQs about Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Glaze them right before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle before using.
How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them without the glaze.
Can I use homemade salted caramel sauce?
Definitely! Homemade salted caramel sauce adds a personal touch and can elevate the flavor of your cupcakes. Just make sure it’s cooled before folding it into the batter or drizzling on top.
What’s the best way to serve these cupcakes?
These cupcakes shine when served fresh. Pair them with a hot beverage like coffee or tea, and don’t forget to drizzle extra salted caramel on top for that wow factor!
Final Thoughts
Baking Salted Caramel Cinnamon Cupcakes is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and joy.
Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings smiles to faces, whether at a family gathering or a cozy night in.
The combination of cinnamon and salted caramel creates a comforting embrace, reminding us of sweet moments shared with loved ones.
So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this baking adventure.
Trust me, the joy these cupcakes bring will make you want to whip up another batch before you know it!
