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Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream Recipe

Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream Recipe

4.6 from 18 reviews

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.

Ingredients

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Cupcakes:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Salted Caramel Buttercream:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 22 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 12 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • pinch of sea salt (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. 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.
  3. Make the buttercream: Beat butter until creamy, mix in caramel sauce, then gradually add powdered sugar and cream until fluffy.
  4. 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.

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