Build Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes Step by Step

• Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter - In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
• Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
• Step 4: Fill the Cupcake Liners - Spoon the batter into prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. If adding candies, drop one into the center of each cupcake before covering with more batter.
• Step 5: Bake - Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Step 6: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting - In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, whipping cream, and caramel sauce until desired consistency is achieved.
• Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes - Once cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each with peanut butter frosting using a spatula or piping bag.
• Step 8: Decorate - Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes and sprinkle with sea salt. For an extra touch, place a chocolate truffle on each cupcake.