Caramel Cups
Cream cheese and buttery flour crusts create a rich, tender base perfect for sweet or savory fillings, ideal for gatherings or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, butter, and flour together to form a dough.
- Press the dough into tassie pan cups.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool before filling or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough. If you don't have cream cheese, mascarpone or ricotta can work as substitutes, though the texture may vary slightly. Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing. You can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the cups for better handling. This dough makes a great base for various fillings, similar to those used in Vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel cups are delightful when filled with a creamy caramel or chocolate ganache. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a festive touch, serve alongside Tres Leches Cake or a refreshing Peach Almond Smoothie to balance the richness of the dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, just until warmed through, to maintain the integrity of the dough. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Cups contains roughly 1398 calories, with 17g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 699mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the caramel cups?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough in the cups for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. When ready to use, bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use to fill the cups besides caramel?
You can fill the cups with various fillings such as chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or even a cheesecake mixture. Experiment with flavors like lemon curd or nut butter for unique twists that can cater to different tastes.
How do I know when the cups are done baking?
The cups are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them after 12 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake, as they can dry out quickly. Allow them to cool completely before filling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).