Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

### Instructions: How to Make Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Making these cupcakes is easier than it sounds, and the results are absolutely worth it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create these irresistible treats:

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cupcake Tin**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This ensures your cupcakes don’t stick to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze.

**Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter**
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, and **salt**. Set aside.

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the **butter** and **sugar** together until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Add the **eggs**, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the **vanilla extract**.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the **sour cream** and **milk**, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.

**Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes**
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

**Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting**
While the cupcakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened **cream cheese** and **butter** until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the **powdered sugar**, a little at a time, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the **vanilla extract** and a pinch of **salt**. Set aside.

**Step 5: Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce**
To make the salted caramel sauce, start by melting the **sugar** over medium heat in a medium saucepan. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Once the sugar has melted and turned into a golden amber color, carefully add the **butter** and stir until fully melted.

Slowly add the **heavy cream** (it will bubble up, so be careful), and stir until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the **salt**. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature before using it to drizzle on the cupcakes.

**Step 6: Assemble the Cupcakes**
Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, use a piping bag or a butter knife to frost each cupcake generously with the cream cheese frosting. You can make a swirl pattern or frost them however you like.

Drizzle the **salted caramel sauce** over the top of the frosted cupcakes. If you prefer, you can add a pinch of **sea salt** on top for an extra burst of salty goodness to balance the sweetness.

**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!**
Your Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes are now ready to be served! These cupcakes are perfect for a dessert table, a birthday party, or simply as a delicious treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

### Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes

1. **Don’t Overmix the Batter**: Overmixing the cupcake batter can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
2. **Cool the Cupcakes Completely**: Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting them to prevent the frosting from melting or becoming runny.
3. **Make the Caramel Sauce in Advance**: You can make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up slightly before drizzling it over the cupcakes.
4. **Add More Salt for Extra Flavor**: If you love the combination of sweet and salty, don’t be afraid to sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for added flavor contrast.

### Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

– **Sweet and Salty Perfection**: The balance of salted caramel and cream cheese frosting makes these cupcakes an irresistible treat.
– **Moist and Fluffy Cupcakes**: Thanks to the sour cream and milk, the cupcake base is tender and moist, providing the perfect foundation for the frosting.
– **Simple Yet Elegant**: While these cupcakes are easy to make, they look and taste so elegant and indulgent, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
– **Make-Ahead Option**: You can make the cupcakes, frosting, and caramel sauce in advance and assemble them just before serving.

### Final Thoughts

These **Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Cupcakes** are a true dessert lover’s dream, offering the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these cupcakes will not disappoint. The combination of rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, buttery cupcakes, and salted caramel drizzle will have everyone reaching for seconds.

So, get ready to bake up these delicious cupcakes, and enjoy a dessert that’s truly **heavenly** in every bite!