Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
If you love the cozy, festive flavors of eggnog, then you are absolutely going to adore this Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes capture all the warmth and spice of classic holiday eggnog in a moist, fluffy treat topped with creamy eggnog frosting. The blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla brings a comforting aroma and taste that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to enjoy a special seasonal indulgence, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to dessert that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step towards baking these delightful cupcakes. Each element has been carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and vibrant color in your Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides structure and a tender crumb for the cupcakes.
- Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp): Helps the cupcakes rise to a light and airy texture.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors in the recipe.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp): Adds the classic warm spice note that defines eggnog flavors.
- Ground cinnamon (1/4 tsp): A subtle spice that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened for batter + 1/2 cup softened for frosting): Brings richness and moisture to both cupcake and frosting.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens while contributing to the cupcake’s soft texture.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and add moisture and structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for batter + 1/2 tsp for frosting): Boosts sweetness and adds fragrant depth.
- Eggnog (1 cup for batter + 1/4 cup for frosting): The star ingredient that infuses authentic eggnog flavor throughout.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): Creates a silky smooth frosting with the perfect sweetness.
- Ground nutmeg (for garnish): A finishing touch to visually and flavorfully complement the cupcakes.
How to Make Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners. This ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and makes for easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Prepare Cupcake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is key for creating a tender texture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and eggnog to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until everything is just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is vital to prevent the frosting from melting.
Step 4: Prepare the Eggnog Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until it’s fully incorporated. Then add the eggnog and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. This luscious frosting brings the unmistakable eggnog flavor and a dreamy texture that’s perfect atop the cupcakes.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Once completely cooled, frost each cupcake generously with the eggnog frosting. Finish with a light dusting of ground nutmeg on top for that extra festive flair and a little aromatic spice with every bite.
How to Serve Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic ground nutmeg, you might consider a sprinkle of cinnamon or a tiny dollop of caramel sauce for an extra layer of festivity. These simple accent touches can elevate the presentation and flavor, making your cupcakes as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced cider, coffee, or even a chilled glass of eggnog to truly enhance the holiday mood. For a richer treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a handful of toasted nuts for added texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe on a festive platter with some holly sprigs or edible gold flakes for a stunning centerpiece. You could even place each cupcake in miniature holiday-themed cups or wrappers to add to the celebratory vibe at your gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their freshness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerating them is a good option, but bring them back to room temperature before enjoying to get that perfect soft texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes unfrosted by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw completely at room temperature before frosting and serving for best taste and texture.
Reheating
While cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can gently warm them in a microwave for about 10 seconds if desired. Avoid reheating after frosting to prevent melting or altering the frosting’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly well and brings convenience without sacrificing the authentic holiday flavor that defines this recipe.
Is it possible to make these cupcakes dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter and a plant-based eggnog alternative to make these cupcakes suitable for a dairy-free diet, though the flavor will vary slightly from the traditional version.
Can I use a different spice mix instead of nutmeg and cinnamon?
While nutmeg and cinnamon are classic for eggnog flavor, you can experiment with allspice or cloves for a different warm spice profile, but use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate cupcake taste.
What is the best way to get fluffy cupcakes?
Beating the butter and sugar thoroughly until fluffy and alternating dry ingredients with wet helps trap air, resulting in soft and tender cupcakes that rise well.
Can I double this Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just make sure to double all ingredients proportionally and use multiple muffin tins or bake in batches to ensure even baking.
Final Thoughts
This Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe is a true celebration of holiday flavors wrapped in one moist, scrumptious package. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to bite into one. So go ahead, bake a batch to fill your kitchen with that irresistible eggnog aroma and share these delightful treats with friends and family. You’ll soon see why this recipe earns a special place in the heart of festive baking traditions.
Print
Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delight in the festive flavors of these moist and spiced Eggnog Cupcakes, topped with a creamy eggnog-infused frosting and a hint of nutmeg for a perfect holiday treat.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 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
- 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. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the eggnog to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Bake: Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the paper 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 allow them to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Mix in the eggnog and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the prepared eggnog frosting. Garnish each cupcake with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg for a festive touch.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and eggs to ensure better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Make sure cupcakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For an extra festive presentation, consider topping with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of allspice along with the nutmeg.
- Eggnog can contain alcohol; use non-alcoholic eggnog for a kid-friendly version.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
