Eggnog Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holidays, these Eggnog Cupcakes are just what you need! They are soft, moist, and bursting with that classic eggnog flavor we all know and love. Every bite feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket during those chilly winter nights.

These cupcakes are perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or even just a cozy evening at home. With their festive appeal, they’ll surely impress your loved ones and create sweet memories!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, so you can whip up a batch in no time!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore these cupcakes. They’re a fun twist on a classic holiday drink!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake these ahead of time and frost them just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Deliciously Festive: The combination of nutmeg and eggnog brings the holiday spirit straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Eggnog Cupcakes is part of the fun! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making it easy to bring this festive treat to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cupcakes

• 1 1/4 cups (163g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cups (155g) sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (150ml) eggnog

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (95g) shortening
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• 4 tbsp (60ml) eggnog
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (alcohol-free), optional
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• pinch of salt

Variations

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with these Eggnog Cupcakes:

• Add Spices: Consider mixing in cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
• Decorate Differently: Top with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes for a holiday touch.
• Different Frosting: Try cream cheese frosting instead of traditional buttercream for a tangy twist.
• Mini Cupcakes: Bake them as mini cupcakes for bite-sized holiday treats that everyone can enjoy!

How to Make Eggnog Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Eggnog Cupcakes bake evenly from the moment they go in.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time. Finally, mix in your eggnog until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to this mixture until just incorporated—don’t overmix!

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While your cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together softened butter and shortening until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Pour in eggnog and mix until fluffy. If desired, add optional vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Frost and Enjoy!

Once your cupcakes are fully cooled, generously frost them with your delicious eggnog frosting using a piping bag or spatula. Top with an extra sprinkle of nutmeg if you like! Serve these delightful treats at your next gathering or keep them all to yourself—they’re sure to spread joy wherever they go!

Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Cupcakes

Making Eggnog Cupcakes is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps achieve a smoother batter, leading to a lighter and fluffier cupcake. Cold ingredients can create lumps and affect the rise.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine your ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in denser cupcakes rather than the soft texture we’re aiming for.

• Use Fresh Nutmeg: Grating fresh nutmeg instead of using pre-ground enhances the flavor significantly. It brings a warm, aromatic quality that complements the eggnog beautifully.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a lovely presentation.

• Experiment with Flavor Variations: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or even a hint of ginger to your batter for an extra festive twist. These variations keep things exciting and unique!

How to Serve Eggnog Cupcakes

Presenting your Eggnog Cupcakes can be as enjoyable as making them! Here are some creative ideas for serving this festive treat.

Garnishes

• Dust with Nutmeg: A light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg on top of your frosted cupcakes adds an appealing look and enhances that classic eggnog flavor.

• Cinnamon Sticks: Placing a small cinnamon stick into the frosting not only serves as an eye-catching garnish but also adds a wonderful aroma as guests take their first bite.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of spiced hot cocoa pairs wonderfully with these cupcakes. The rich chocolate flavor balances the sweetness while complementing the festive spices.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and apples provides a light contrast to the richness of the cupcakes.

• Cheese Platter: Offering a cheese platter featuring creamy brie or sharp cheddar can create a nice savory contrast. The cheese’s creaminess pairs well with sweet treats like our Eggnog Cupcakes.

• Gingerbread Cookies: Serve alongside gingerbread cookies for that quintessential holiday vibe. The spicy flavors harmonize beautifully with the eggnog notes in your cupcakes.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Eggnog Cupcakes are sure to be the star of any holiday gathering! Enjoy making memories (and delicious treats) this festive season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Eggnog Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors of the season without the last-minute rush. Whether you’re planning for a holiday gathering or just want some delicious treats on hand, here’s how to store and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If frosted, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best flavor and texture, allow cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze unfrosted cupcakes, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the cupcakes to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your container!

Reheating

• To thaw frozen cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 1 hour.
• If you prefer warm cupcakes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the cupcakes on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy with fresh frosting if desired!

FAQs

Have questions about making these delightful Eggnog Cupcakes? We’ve got answers!

Can I use non-dairy eggnog for Eggnog Cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can substitute any non-dairy eggnog alternative in this recipe without compromising taste or texture. Just ensure it’s well-mixed before using.

How can I make Eggnog Cupcakes gluten-free?

To make these Eggnog Cupcakes gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum for the best results.

What makes these Eggnog Cupcakes special?

These Eggnog Cupcakes capture the essence of your favorite holiday drink in a delightful dessert form. The combination of spices and creamy frosting makes them a festive treat everyone will love!

How should I decorate my Eggnog Cupcakes?

Get creative! You can sprinkle nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the frosting or add festive sprinkles. A cinnamon stick or mini gingerbread cookie makes an adorable garnish too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Eggnog Cupcakes as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re a celebration of the holiday spirit wrapped in soft, moist cake. Don’t hesitate to share them with friends and family—they’re sure to brighten up any gathering. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy this season!