THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Dessert
Tasty SPAM® Cupcakes Drenched in Salted Caramel Frosting
If you’re looking to try something sweet with a savory twist, these cupcakes are sure to surprise and delight your taste buds. The rich salted caramel frosting perfectly complements the unique flavor inside for a fun and unexpected treat.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Tasty SPAM® Cupcakes Drenched in Salted Caramel Frosting
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get a 24-cup muffin tin ready by greasing it or lining it with paper liners. Next, warm up a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the grated SPAM®, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and crispy—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to cool down completely.
02
Step 2
In a big bowl, mix together the cake mix, water, mayonnaise, and eggs using an electric mixer on low speed just until everything is moistened. Then crank up the speed to medium and beat until the batter is smooth, which should take around 2 minutes. Gently fold in about two-thirds of the crispy SPAM®.
03
Step 3
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
04
Step 4
For the salted caramel frosting, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, making sure the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a minute without stirring. Take it off the heat, add a pinch of salt, and let it cool completely.
05
Step 5
Once the caramel is cool, transfer it to a large bowl and gradually beat in the powdered sugar, adding it a cup at a time until the frosting is thick enough to spread. Finally, slather the frosting on the cupcakes and sprinkle the remaining crispy SPAM® on top for a salty crunch. Enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
These cupcakes offer a surprising blend of savory and sweet that delights the palate. The salty richness of SPAM® pairs perfectly with the smooth, buttery caramel frosting. It’s a fun twist on traditional cupcakes that will impress your friends and family.
How to serve
Serve these cupcakes as a unique dessert at brunch or a casual get-together. They pair well with a hot cup of coffee or a sweet iced tea. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving.
Storage & leftovers
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. The frosting may soften slightly but will still taste delicious.
