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Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream

Delightful cupcakes featuring a rich chocolate and espresso base topped with creamy salted caramel buttercream.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
For the Buttercream
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup salted caramel sauce plus more for drizzling
For Garnish
  • to taste Chocolate curls for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream the butter until smooth, then add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients and espresso, stirring until just combined.
  5. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes.
Buttercream Preparation
  1. While cooling, prepare the buttercream by beating the softened butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then mix in 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce until well blended.
Frosting
  1. Once cupcakes are cool, frost them with the salted caramel buttercream, drizzle with additional caramel sauce, and top with chocolate curls.
Serving
  1. Serve at room temperature, garnished with extra chocolate curls and a drizzle of salted caramel.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 35g

Notes

Use fresh espresso for a richer flavor. Ensure butter is softened for the best frosting consistency. Don't overmix batter to keep cupcakes soft and fluffy. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

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