Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
There is nothing quite as comforting and festive as a moist, spiced cupcake infused with the rich, creamy flavors of holiday eggnog. This Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe combines fluffy cake layered with luscious eggnog frosting, topped with a sprinkle of warming nutmeg for that perfect seasonal touch. It’s truly a show-stopping treat that tastes like Christmas in every bite, making it ideal for celebrations, cozy gatherings, or simply indulging yourself on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of baking any exceptional cupcake. These simple, pantry-friendly items come together seamlessly to create a batter that’s light but flavorful, with the frosting adding a dreamy, velvety finish.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and tender crumb to the cupcakes.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds fragrant warmth, giving the cupcakes that classic eggnog spice.
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Offers a subtle kick of spice that complements the nutmeg.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moistness to the cake and frosting.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly without overpowering the spices.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a tender texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 cup eggnog: The star ingredient that infuses creamy, festive flavor throughout the cupcakes.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- 1/4 cup eggnog: Adds a luscious, authentic eggnog flavor to the frosting.
- Ground nutmeg, for garnish: Finishing touch that visually and aromatically elevates each cupcake.
How to Make Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans
Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This step ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and are easy to remove once done.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a bowl. Combining these ingredients upfront helps distribute the leavening and spices uniformly throughout the batter for consistent flavor and rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aeration step is key to achieving tender and airy cupcakes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure smooth integration. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Eggnog
Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the eggnog, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the cupcakes dense, and we want them feather-light and soft!
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Eggnog Frosting
Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar while mixing continuously. Stir in the eggnog and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable—light and airy with that unmistakable eggnog essence.
Step 8: Frost and Garnish
Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, generously frost each one with the eggnog frosting. Finish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg for a festive and aromatic touch that delights both the eyes and palate.
How to Serve Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a fun way to personalize your Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe. Beyond the classic ground nutmeg, try a small cinnamon stick or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Tiny edible gold stars or holly-shaped fondant accents can elevate these cupcakes for holiday parties.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with warming drinks like spiced tea, coffee with a hint of cinnamon, or a glass of creamy eggnog to enhance the festive spirit. A side of fresh berries or a light citrus salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich cupcakes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cupcakes on decorative cake stands with holiday-themed liners to wow your guests. For a whimsical touch, arrange them inside a festive box as edible gifts. You might even scoop a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel on top for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Eggnog cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated, but bring them back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cupcakes later, freeze them without frosting for up to two months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost as usual.
Reheating
To refresh cupcakes after refrigeration or freezing, warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating, as this can dry them out. Once warm, the cupcakes regain their soft, moist texture, making every bite as delightful as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought eggnog is convenient and works perfectly to infuse the cupcakes with that classic flavor. Just ensure it’s well chilled for the best incorporation into the batter and frosting.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and choose a plant-based eggnog or make your own. Keep in mind, the texture and flavor might differ slightly, but it will still be a delicious treat.
Can these cupcakes be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that has baking powder included, or add your own. Gluten-free flours can change the texture, so be gentle when mixing and consider adding a binders like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it.
How spicy are these cupcakes?
The warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon create a gentle, cozy spice that complements the creamy eggnog without being overpowering. It’s perfectly balanced for all palates, even little ones who enjoy holiday flavors.
Can I double this Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe for larger gatherings?
For sure! The recipe scales up nicely. Just be sure to use larger mixing bowls and multiple cupcake tins or bake in batches. Monitor baking times closely, as ovens vary, but overall the process remains the same.
Final Thoughts
The Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe is one of those magical desserts that bring warmth and joy to any occasion. The cozy spices and creamy richness encapsulate holiday cheer in every bite, making them a must-make for your festive baking lineup. I can’t wait for you to try these delightful cupcakes and share that same happiness with your loved ones.
Print
Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These rich and moist Eggnog Cupcakes capture the festive flavors of classic eggnog, featuring a spiced cake infused with nutmeg and cinnamon, topped with a creamy eggnog frosting and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any occasion that calls for a delightful seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup eggnog
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup eggnog
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Ground nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Cupcake Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon until well combined. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients mixture and the eggnog to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to create a smooth batter.
- Bake: Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then add the eggnog and vanilla extract, continuing to beat the frosting until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have fully cooled, frost each cupcake with the prepared eggnog frosting using a spatula or piping bag. Garnish the top of each cupcake with a light sprinkle of ground nutmeg for a festive touch.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure tender cupcakes.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results in mixing and texture.
- These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute eggnog and butter with appropriate non-dairy alternatives.
- Feel free to garnish with nutmeg or even crushed cinnamon sticks for extra aroma and decoration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
