Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

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## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Make the Cupcakes**
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)** and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the **flour, baking powder, and salt**.
3. In a large bowl, beat the **butter and sugar** together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the **vanilla extract**.
5. Gradually add the **dry ingredients** to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Fill each cupcake liner about **2/3 full** and bake for **18-20 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.

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### **Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting**
1. In a large bowl, beat the **cream cheese and butter** together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the **powdered sugar**, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the **vanilla extract** and continue beating until light and fluffy.

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### **Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce**
1. In a **medium saucepan**, heat the sugar over **medium heat**, stirring constantly until it melts into an amber-colored liquid.
2. Carefully add the **butter**, stirring until melted.
3. Slowly pour in the **heavy cream**, stirring constantly. The mixture will bubble up—keep stirring until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the **sea salt**. Let the caramel cool slightly before using.

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### **Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes**
1. Pipe or spread the **cream cheese frosting** onto the cooled cupcakes.
2. Drizzle **salted caramel sauce** generously over the frosting.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of **sea salt** for extra flavor.

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## **Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes**

✔ **Sweet & Salty Perfection** – The balance of caramel sweetness and sea salt enhances every bite.
✔ **Creamy & Rich Frosting** – Cream cheese frosting adds a velvety, tangy contrast to the cupcakes.
✔ **Easy & Impressive** – These cupcakes look gourmet but are simple to make at home!
✔ **Perfect for Any Occasion** – Great for birthdays, holidays, or an indulgent treat.

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## **Baking Tips for Success**

– **Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:** This ensures smooth mixing and a fluffy texture.
– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes—stir until just combined.
– **Cool the Cupcakes Completely:** Warm cupcakes will melt the frosting.
– **Store Properly:** Keep cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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## **Final Thoughts**

Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are the ultimate indulgence, offering a **rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced** flavor experience. The **smooth frosting**, combined with the **buttery caramel drizzle** and **fluffy cupcake base**, makes these an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is a must-try.

So grab your whisk and get ready to impress with these **heavenly cupcakes**! 🍰✨