“How could something so simple be so enchanting?” A friend whispered this while sinking her teeth into one of my fluffy dulce de leche cupcakes, and I couldn’t help but smile. These delightful treats capture the essence of celebration, making them perfect for any occasion, especially Cinco de Mayo. With a moist and airy texture, each cupcake reveals a gooey dulce de leche filling, while the buttery frosting adds a sweet and savory twist. They are not only easy to whip up but also promise to impress your guests, ensuring worthy applause all around. If you’re ready to dive into a baking adventure that’s sure to sweeten your day, let’s uncover how to create these irresistible dulce de leche cupcakes together! What flavor are you most excited to try? Why Are Dulce de Leche Cupcakes Irresistible? Delightful combination: These cupcakes blend a light, airy crumb with a luscious dulce de leche filling, creating a treat that dazzles the senses. Easy to make: Perfect for home bakers of all levels, the simple steps ensure you can create these sweet masterpieces without stress. Perfect for celebrations: Celebrate occasions like Cinco de Mayo with a dessert that’s both festive and unique, impressing guests with every bite. Endless variations: Customize with chocolate or vanilla bases, or swap the frosting for cream cheese to suit every palate, keeping things fresh and exciting. Dulce de leche goodness: Bursting with rich flavor, these cupcakes are a delightful way to enjoy the creamy caramel taste that captures hearts and taste buds. Ready to dive into this baking adventure and create your own delightful dulce de leche? Dulce de Leche Cupcake Ingredients Indulge in the sweet magic! For the Cupcakes All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure freshness for optimal rise. Baking Soda – Provides additional leavening for that fluffy texture. Salt – Enhances flavor; it’s essential for balance. Unsalted Butter – Softened for richness; can substitute half with cream cheese for a tangier frosting. Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; white sugar can work as a substitute. Eggs – Bind and add moisture; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation. Full-Fat Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt) – Introduces moisture and richness; use buttermilk for a lighter twist. Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cupcakes moist; melted coconut oil can add a delightful flavor. Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; substitute with vanilla bean paste for a richer taste. Whole Milk – Adds moisture; almond or oat milk serves as a dairy-free option. Dulce de Leche – The star filling and frosting component; choose between store-bought or homemade. For the Buttercream Frosting Unsalted Butter – Softened to create a creamy consistency for the frosting. Confectioners’ Sugar – Provides sweetness; adjust the amount to achieve desired frosting thickness. Salt – Balances the sweetness in the buttercream; a pinch goes a long way. Milk – Adjusts the frosting consistency; add a splash if it’s too thick. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the magic of dulce de leche cupcakes! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dulce de Leche Cupcakes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a cupcake pan with baking cups to make sure your dulce de leche cupcakes have a cozy home to rise and bake beautifully. The cups will help maintain the moisture and flavor while providing a charming presentation. Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture is essential for creating the fluffy texture of the cupcakes. Ensure there are no lumps in the mixture, and set the bowl aside while you mix the wet ingredients. Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The sugar will dissolve into the butter, creating a creamy base. This step is crucial for the overall structure and taste of your dulce de leche cupcakes. Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Wet Ingredients Add 2 large room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, ½ cup of full-fat sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and ¼ cup of vegetable oil. Beat these together until they are fully combined, ensuring a rich, moist batter for your delightful cupcakes. Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients and Milk Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with ½ cup of whole milk. Start with the flour, mix until just combined, and then pour in the milk. Repeat this process until both mixtures are used, taking care not to overmix. This will help maintain the light, airy texture of your dulce de leche cupcakes. Step 6: Fill and Bake Spoon the cupcake batter into the prepared baking cups, filling each about ¾ full to allow space for rising. Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. They are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As they bake, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma! Step 7: Cool the Cupcakes Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important to prevent the dulce de leche from melting when filling and frosting the cupcakes. Step 8: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, mixing until combined. Then, add ½ cup of dulce de leche and a pinch of salt. Continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with a splash of milk if needed; your frosting should be smooth and spreadable. Step 9: Fill and Frost the Cupcakes Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a cupcake corer or a knife to carefully remove a small section from the center of each cupcake. Fill each core with a generous amount of dulce de leche, then pipe the buttercream frosting on top. For an extra touch, you can drizzle additional dulce de leche over the frosting, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece. Make Ahead Options These luscious dulce de leche cupcakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The cupcakes can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 5 days after cooling completely. For the frosting, you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a week—just give it a quick whisk before frosting. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the cooled cupcakes with dulce de leche, frost with the buttercream, and relish the delightful flavor that stays just as delicious even when prepped ahead! What to Serve with Fluffy Dulce de Leche Cupcakes? Imagine the delightful laughter of friends and family as you dig into these sweet morsels, creating cherished memories and flavor pairings! Espresso: A rich, bold espresso enhances the sweet caramel notes of the cupcakes, making for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. The deep flavors contrast beautifully with the sugary sweetness. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla bean ice cream pairs perfectly, offering a cooling sensation against the warm cupcake, all while balancing the rich dulce de leche flavor. Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a tart contrast, adding a bright pop that elevates the sweetness of the cupcakes. The freshness invigorates each bite! Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a silky chocolate ganache over the cupcakes adds a decadent layer, creating an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore. Margarita Mocktail: A refreshing margarita mocktail serves as a lively complement, balancing sweetness with a zesty note of lime that enlivens the palate. Coffee Cake: For the perfect brunch spread, pair these cupcakes with coffee cake; the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors harmonize beautifully, making it a delightful day starter. Churros: For a festive touch, serving churros alongside these cupcakes offers a playful texture contrast, adding an authentic Latin flavor and fun to the table. Chocolate Milkshake: Dive into nostalgia with a thick chocolate milkshake that complements the cupcakes with its creamy richness, making it an instant dessert hit. Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad enhances the experience, providing a sweet crunch and cleansing the palate, ideal for balancing the richness of the dulce de leche. Coconut Water: An unexpected but refreshing option, coconut water hydrates and offers a light tropical flair that harmonizes with the indulgent cupcakes. Each pairing complements the sweetness of the dulce de leche cupcakes, transforming your dessert experience into a delightful celebration! How to Store and Freeze Dulce de Leche Cupcakes Room Temperature: Store uneaten cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fluffy texture. Fridge: If keeping longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unassembled cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag. Frostings can be frozen for up to 1 month in airtight containers. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, and if desired, warm in a microwave for a few seconds to revive that delectable fluffiness of the dulce de leche cupcakes. Dulce de Leche Cupcakes: Easy Variations Looking to put your unique twist on these delightful cupcakes? Here are some fun ideas to personalize your baking adventure! Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions. The cupcakes will still come out light and fluffy! Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for the base. Chocolate and dulce de leche create a rich, indulgent combination that’s hard to resist. Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist. Not only does it add texture, but it also brings a new layer of flavor! Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap buttercream for cream cheese frosting for a tangy balance that complements the sweetness of the dulce de leche. It’s a fabulous pairing that will win hearts! Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a subtle heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweet filling. Your taste buds will thank you! Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture. The nuttiness contrasts wonderfully with the gooey dulce de leche, making each bite exciting. Lemon Zing: Substitute some of the vanilla extract with lemon juice and zest. This brightens up the flavor profile, giving your cupcakes a refreshing twist perfect for any celebration. Dairy-Free: For those avoiding dairy, replace butter and milk with coconut oil and almond milk. You can still enjoy rich, moist cupcakes without compromising flavor! With these variations, your dulce de leche cupcakes can be as versatile as your imagination. Perhaps you even want to explore a delightful cream cheese frosting recipe as a frosting alternative? The options are endless! Expert Tips for Dulce de Leche Cupcakes Room Temperature Essentials: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smooth batter and fluffy cupcakes. Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your dulce de leche cupcakes light and airy. Mix until the ingredients just come together. Cooling Crucial: Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the buttercream from melting and losing its shape. Filling Method: Use a cupcake corer or a sharp knife to fill your cupcakes with dulce de leche, but be careful not to make the hole too large. Frosting Consistency: If your buttercream is too thin, gradually add more confectioners’ sugar. If too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. Dulce de Leche Cupcakes Recipe FAQs What type of dulce de leche should I use? You can use either store-bought or homemade dulce de leche for this recipe. Store-bought is convenient and ensures consistent texture, while homemade offers a rich, customizable flavor. If you decide to make it from scratch, keep an eye on the consistency—it should be thick and spreadable, resembling a caramel sauce. How should I store my dulce de leche cupcakes? To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Always let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture. Can I freeze dulce de leche cupcakes? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each unassembled cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. If you’ve already frosted them, it’s best to freeze the frosting separately for optimal texture. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying! What should I do if my cupcake batter is too thick? If your batter feels thick and difficult to mix, it likely needs more moisture. Gradually add a splash of milk while mixing until you reach a smooth consistency. Remember, it’s essential not to overmix—just gently combine the ingredients until no dry streaks remain. Are there any dietary considerations for these cupcakes? While these dulce de leche cupcakes are not gluten-free or dairy-free as written, they can easily be adapted! Use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free, and replace dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs! Decadent Dulce de Leche Cupcakes for Sweet Celebrations Indulge in these Dulce de Leche Cupcakes, a perfect treat for celebrations, featuring a gooey filling and delightful frosting. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 12 cupcakesCourse: DessertCuisine: MexicanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Cupcake Ingredients1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with a gluten-free blend for gluten-free version.1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure freshness for optimal rise.½ teaspoon Baking Soda Provides additional leavening.½ teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.½ cup Unsalted Butter Softened for richness.1 cup Light Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.2 large Eggs Use room temperature for better incorporation.½ cup Full-Fat Sour Cream Or Greek Yogurt.¼ cup Vegetable Oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil.1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract Substitute with vanilla bean paste for richer taste.½ cup Whole Milk Dairy-free options include almond or oat milk.½ cup Dulce de Leche Choose store-bought or homemade.Buttercream Frosting Ingredients½ cup Unsalted Butter Softened to create creamy consistency.2 cups Confectioners' Sugar Adjust for desired thickness.a pinch Salt Balances sweetness.as needed splash Milk Adjusts frosting consistency. Equipment ovenCupcake PanMixing bowlsElectric mixerCupcake CorerWhisk Method Preparing the CupcakesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with baking cups.Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.Beat softened butter and light brown sugar together until light and fluffy.Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Then incorporate vanilla, sour cream, and vegetable oil.Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and milk, alternating until just combined.Fill cupcake liners ¾ full and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.Cool cupcakes in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.Prepare the Buttercream FrostingBeat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add confectioners' sugar and mix until combined.Add dulce de leche and a pinch of salt; mix until light and fluffy. Adjust with milk if necessary.Fill and Frost the CupcakesOnce cooled, use a cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake and fill with dulce de leche.Pipe buttercream frosting on top and optionally drizzle more dulce de leche for decoration. Nutrition Serving: 1cupcakeCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
