If you’re looking for a fun twist on savory and sweet, this recipe delivers a delicious surprise. These cupcakes combine the salty goodness of SPAM® with a rich, creamy salted caramel frosting that’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Start by heating your oven to 350°F 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. Toss in the grated SPAM and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns nice and crispy—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once it’s golden, transfer the SPAM to a paper towel-lined plate to cool completely.
In a big bowl, mix together the cake mix, water, mayonnaise, and eggs using an electric mixer on low speed until everything is just combined. Then crank it up to medium and beat until the batter is smooth, about 2 minutes. Gently fold in about two-thirds of the crispy SPAM, saving the rest for later. Spoon the batter evenly into your muffin cups.
Pop the cupcakes in the oven and bake for around 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan on a wire rack until they’re completely cool to the touch.
While the cupcakes are cooling, make the salted caramel frosting. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the brown sugar and heavy cream. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let the sauce simmer without stirring for about a minute. Take it off the heat, stir in the salt, and let it cool completely.
Once the caramel sauce is cool, transfer it to a bowl and gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar, about a cup at a time, until the frosting is thick and spreadable. Slather the frosting over your cooled cupcakes and sprinkle the remaining crispy SPAM on top. Enjoy!
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure the batter mixes smoothly.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
These cupcakes combine the savory flavor of SPAM® with a sweet, buttery caramel frosting for a unique taste experience. The salty and sweet contrast makes every bite exciting and satisfying. They’re perfect for adventurous eaters who enjoy bold flavors.
Serve these cupcakes as a fun appetizer or dessert at casual gatherings. Pair them with a cup of strong coffee or a crisp, cold beverage to balance the rich flavors. They also work well as a surprising treat for brunch.
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture. The frosting may firm up slightly when chilled.
