Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes

Name: Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cup caramel sauce for drizzling; 1/2 cup chocolate ganache or melted chocolate

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I can't get enough of these Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes! From the rich, moist chocolate cake to the luscious caramel filling, every bite is pure bliss. I crafted this recipe after experimenting with different ratios of chocolate and caramel, and what I discovered was magical. These cupcakes are wonderfully indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make. They're perfect for special occasions or any time I want to treat myself and my loved ones. Trust me, once you try these, they'll become your new favorite dessert!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T20:34:27.992Z

Every time I bake these Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes, I am reminded of the joy they bring to the table. I started with my go-to chocolate cake recipe but integrated a homemade caramel sauce to elevate the experience. This combination not only adds depth but also provides a delightful surprise when you bite into the cupcake. My secret is to bake the cupcakes just right and allow the caramel to ooze without making the cake soggy!

The caramel drizzle on top adds a finishing touch that everyone loves. I recommend making a bit extra caramel for drizzling because it’s just so good! These cupcakes have become a staple at family gatherings, evoking smiles and requests for seconds every time.

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Decadent chocolate cake paired with a gooey caramel center
Beautifully topped with more caramel and chocolate drizzle
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet escape

The Magic of Caramel Filling

Creating the gooey caramel center in these cupcakes is what truly elevates them to another level. By adding a teaspoon of caramel sauce before covering it with more batter, you ensure that each bite has an unexpected burst of sweetness. Be mindful to not overfill—aim for three-quarters full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without spilling over, which can affect both texture and presentation.

If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own caramel sauce. A simple mix of granulated sugar, water, and cream can yield a rich, homemade version that enhances the flavor. Just be sure to watch it closely as it cooks—it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Homemade caramel has a nuanced flavor that can really make these cupcakes shine.

The Perfect Chocolate Cake

The chocolate cake base is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the caramel. Using unsweetened cocoa powder, as specified, helps create a rich flavor without overwhelming sweetness. Moreover, the melted butter adds moisture, resulting in a decadent texture. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor; you'll notice the difference in the depth of taste—rich and slightly bittersweet.

Mixing the wet and dry ingredients carefully is key. Avoid overmixing; stir until just combined to keep your cupcakes light and airy. Overmixing can create a dense cupcake that doesn't rise properly. It's normal for the batter to have small lumps, so don’t worry about achieving a completely smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for these delightful cupcakes:

Cupcake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Topping Ingredients

1/2 cup caramel sauce for drizzling
1/2 cup chocolate ganache or melted chocolate

Make sure to have everything on hand before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for delicious Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Fill Cupcake Liners

Fill each cupcake liner about halfway with batter, then add a teaspoon of caramel sauce in the center before covering with more batter until three-quarters full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling.

Top with Toppings

Once cooled, drizzle extra caramel sauce and melted chocolate ganache on top of each cupcake.

Enjoy your delicious creations!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients. It enhances the chocolate flavor remarkably!

Storing and Serving Tips

These Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just make sure to allow them to reach room temperature before serving to revive their soft texture.

For an added touch, try serving these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The ice cream will melt slightly over the warm cupcakes, blending beautifully with the caramel and chocolate. It’s an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress your guests.

Variations and Nutritional Adjustments

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache topping. Dark chocolate adds a rich depth, while milk chocolate offers more sweetness. You could even mix in some sea salt to the ganache for a salted caramel effect that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, gooey center.

If you're looking to make these cupcakes gluten-free, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your caramel sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can still enjoy the indulgent flavor of these Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes without compromising on your dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought caramel works perfectly in this recipe for a quick and easy option.

→ How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze either the unfrosted or frosted cupcakes. Just wrap them tightly and they will keep for about 3 months.

→ What other flavors can I add?

Try adding vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor twist. You can also mix in chocolate chips for added texture.