Decadent Kahlua-infused Caramel Cream Cups 🍮

Creamy Caramel Cups Recipe

Description: Creamy caramel filled cups that make an elegant statement to your cookie trays. And they freeze well, what more could you want?

Recipe Category: Dessert

Keywords: Cookie & Brownie, Weeknight, < 4 Hours

Servings: 45 cups

Ingredients:

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 161
• Fat Content: 10.9g
• Saturated Fat Content: 3.1g
• Cholesterol Content: 6.7mg
• Sodium Content: 110.8mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 14.3g
• Fiber Content: 0.1g
• Sugar Content: 8.3g
• Protein Content: 1.8g

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease mini muffin cups or line them with paper liners.

2. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 package of cream cheese, and 1 cup of margarine.
   • Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
   • Shape the dough into small balls.
   • Press each ball into the prepared mini muffin cups, making sure to create a well in the center of each cup.
   • Prick the dough with a fork 4-5 times to prevent puffing during baking.

3. Bake the Cups:

   • Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Once baked, remove the cups from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the tin.

4. Prepare the Caramel Filling:

   • In a double boiler, melt the caramels until smooth and creamy.
   • Stir in 1/2 cup of evaporated milk and 1/2 cup of Kahlua until well combined.
   • Fill each cooled cup halfway with the melted caramel filling.

5. Prepare the Frosting:

   • In a separate mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of margarine, 1/2 cup of Crisco, and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add 1 small can of evaporated milk and 1 tablespoon of Kahlua (or more to taste).
   • Beat the mixture for at least 10-15 minutes or until it reaches the consistency of a light, fluffy whipped topping.

6. Assembly:

   • Using a pastry bag or a strong plastic bag with the corner cut off, pipe the frosting onto the cooled caramel-filled cups.
   • Sprinkle the tops with chopped nuts or sprinkles for added flavor and decoration.

7. Optional Step:

   • If you prefer to make these in advance, you can prepare the dough cups one day and fill and ice them on another.
   • Store the assembled cups in the freezer until ready to serve or include them on your cookie trays.

These creamy caramel cups are a delightful addition to any dessert spread, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. Enjoy the rich caramel flavor and creamy texture with or without the Kahlua addition. They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends! 🍪