Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of espresso, caramel, and vanilla with these Caramel Macchiato Cupcakes. A coffee lover’s dream, these moist and flavorful cupcakes are topped with a luscious espresso-infused frosting and caramel drizzle. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon brewed espresso
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in brewed espresso and caramel sauce until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
- Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add brewed espresso and mix until frosting is fluffy and creamy.
- If needed, add a splash of heavy cream to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes
- Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
- Optionally, garnish with espresso powder or a caramel candy piece.
Notes
- Decaf Option – Use decaffeinated coffee for a less caffeinated treat.
- Chocolate Twist – Add cocoa powder to the batter for a mocha-inspired version.
- Salted Caramel – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the caramel drizzle.
- Dairy-Free – Substitute non-dairy butter, milk, and cream cheese.
- Extra Espresso Kick – Add espresso powder to the frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dessert, cupcakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel macchiato cupcakes, coffee cupcakes, espresso dessert, caramel drizzle, homemade cupcakes