Chocolate Caramel Stuffed Cupcakes are decadent treats featuring moist chocolate cupcakes filled with rich caramel and topped with a luscious chocolate frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for celebrations or a sweet indulgence!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Making Chocolate Caramel Stuffed Cupcakes takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Fill Cupcake Liners: Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Filling

1. Fill Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake. Fill the hole with caramel sauce, then replace the top of the cupcake.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

1. Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Frost Cupcakes: Use a piping bag or a knife to frost the tops of the filled cupcakes with the chocolate frosting.
2. Drizzle with Caramel: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes for an extra touch.

Step 6: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve these delicious chocolate caramel stuffed cupcakes at room temperature and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chocolate Caramel Stuffed Cupcakes (per cupcake, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Cupcake
Calories	350
Protein	3g
Fat	16g
Carbohydrates	50g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	30g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the cupcake batter for a mocha flavor.
• Filling Options: Substitute caramel sauce with chocolate ganache or fruit preserves for different fillings.
• Decorative Toppings: Top with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Conclusion

Chocolate Caramel Stuffed Cupcakes are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and sweet caramel, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or just because, these cupcakes are sure to impress! Enjoy this delightful recipe!