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Irresistible Caramel Macchiato Cupcakes Recipe | Perfect Coffee-Flavored Treats


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x

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
    • 12 tablespoons heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Stir in vanilla extract.
  6. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  7. Fold in brewed espresso and caramel sauce until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

  1. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
  2. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
  3. Add brewed espresso and mix until frosting is fluffy and creamy.
  4. If needed, add a splash of heavy cream to reach desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

  1. Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
  2. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
  3. 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