Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream Recipes

Chocolate and espresso. A match made in dessert heaven.

Today, we’re diving into a recipe that will satisfy your deepest cravings.

With a rich chocolate base, bold espresso notes, and a luscious salted caramel buttercream, this cupcake is pure indulgence.

What Are Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream?

Imagine biting into a soft, moist chocolate cupcake infused with the deep, slightly bitter notes of espresso. Then, picture a fluffy, creamy buttercream infused with homemade salted caramel. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and salty, rich and smooth. The espresso intensifies the chocolate, while the caramel adds a sophisticated touch of sweetness. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe will guide you step by step to delicious results.

Definition List

Espresso: A concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans.

Salted Caramel: A caramel sauce made with sugar, butter, cream, and a touch of sea salt.

Buttercream: A smooth and fluffy frosting made by whipping butter with sugar and liquid ingredients.

Materials Needed

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 1/2 cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder	1/2 cup
Espresso powder	2 tsp
Baking powder	1 1/2 tsp
Baking soda	1/2 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter (softened)	1/2 cup
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Eggs	2
Vanilla extract	2 tsp
Whole milk	3/4 cup
Strong brewed espresso	1/2 cup
Heavy cream	1 cup
Brown sugar	1 cup
Sea salt	1/2 tsp
Powdered sugar	2 cups

Step-by-Step Recipe

Making the Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes

1. Preheat & Prep
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar
   • In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla
   • Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet & Dry
   • Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture.
   • Pour in brewed espresso and mix until smooth.
6. Bake
   • Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full.
   • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
   • Let cool completely before frosting.

Making Salted Caramel Buttercream

1. Make the Caramel
   • Heat brown sugar in a pan over medium heat until melted.
   • Stir in heavy cream and sea salt.
   • Let cool completely.
2. Prepare Buttercream
   • Beat butter until creamy.
   • Slowly add powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
   • Pour in cooled caramel and whip until fluffy.
3. Frost the Cupcakes
   • Pipe or spread the buttercream onto cooled cupcakes.

Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Cocoa & Espresso: The flavor depends on these key ingredients.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smooth batter.
• Cool Cupcakes Before Frosting: Warm cupcakes will melt the buttercream.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Overmixing the Batter: Leads to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the Espresso Powder: It enhances the chocolate flavor, don’t leave it out.
• Not Cooling the Caramel Enough: Hot caramel will ruin the buttercream texture.

Variations to Try

• Mocha Cupcakes: Add chocolate chips to the batter.
• Vanilla Caramel Frosting: Swap espresso cupcakes for vanilla ones.
• Extra Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle more caramel on top for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, but espresso powder gives a deeper flavor.

How do I store these cupcakes?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for a week.

Can I make the caramel ahead of time?

Yes! Store in the fridge for up to a week and warm slightly before using.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Buttercream are rich, indulgent, and worth every step. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or a simple treat, they’ll impress every time. Give them a try and enjoy the magic of chocolate, espresso, and caramel in every bite!