Indulge in the rich flavors of these Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes topped with a luscious Salted Caramel Buttercream. Perfect for any occasion, these decadent treats are a delightful combination of chocolate, espresso, and caramel.
Author:nadia
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:18 minutes
Total Time:43 minutes
Yield:12 cupcakes 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
Cupcakes:
1cup all-purpose flour
1/2cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2cup granulated sugar
1/2cup packed brown sugar
1/2cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2cup buttermilk
1/4cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Salted Caramel Buttercream:
1/2cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2–2 1/2cups powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
pinch of sea salt (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Prepare the cupcakes: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, beat together sugars and oil, then add eggs, vanilla, buttermilk, and espresso. Gradually add dry ingredients and fold in chocolate chips. Divide batter into liners and bake for 16–18 minutes.
Make the buttercream: Beat butter until creamy, mix in caramel sauce, then gradually add powdered sugar and cream until fluffy.
Decorate the cupcakes: Pipe or spread the buttercream onto cooled cupcakes and garnish with sea salt if desired.
Notes
For homemade caramel, combine sugar, butter, and cream in a saucepan.
Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.