Eggnog Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the season, you’ve come to the right place! These Eggnog Cupcakes are more than just dessert; they are a celebration in every bite. The soft, moist cake is infused with rich eggnog flavor, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, fitting seamlessly into your holiday plans.

I love how these cupcakes bring together the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the creamy sweetness of eggnog. They’re a true holiday favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to experience their festive charm!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have these delicious cupcakes ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats, making them perfect for any gathering.
• Festively flavored: The warm spices combined with eggnog create a unique flavor that embodies the holiday spirit.
• Make-ahead option: Bake these cupcakes in advance and store them for a fun surprise when guests arrive!
• Versatile frosting: Top them with a luscious frosting that enhances the eggnog flavor even more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Eggnog Cupcakes come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need for both the cupcakes and the frosting to create this delightful treat!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative and make it your own! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add chocolate chips: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter for an extra sweet surprise.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cupcakes without gluten.
• Use different spices: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or gingerbread spice for a twist on traditional flavors.
• Top with whipped cream: Instead of frosting, consider topping these cupcakes with whipped cream for a lighter finish.

How to Make Eggnog Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven warms up, prepare your cupcake liners in a muffin tin.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour, which is key for fluffy cupcakes.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cupcakes their delightful texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs one by one. Beat well after each addition until everything is smooth. This helps create an even batter full of moisture and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with eggnog. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to dense cupcakes.

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners

Spoon the batter into prepared cupcake liners about two-thirds full. This gives them room to rise without overflowing while baking.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Place your cupcake tray in the oven and bake for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them — you want perfectly golden tops!

Step 8: Cool Completely

Once baked, remove from oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling completely is essential before adding your frosting so it doesn’t melt away.

Step 9: Make Frosting

While they cool down, prepare your frosting by beating together unsalted butter and shortening until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar followed by eggnog until smooth. Add optional vanilla extract if desired.

Step 10: Frost Your Cupcakes

Once cooled completely, frost each cupcake generously with your delicious eggnog frosting. Sprinkle some nutmeg on top for that extra festive touch!

And there you have it! A batch of Eggnog Cupcakes that will surely spread joy this holiday season! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Cupcakes

Baking these delightful Eggnog Cupcakes can be a breeze if you keep a few helpful tips in mind!

• Room temperature ingredients: Using eggs and butter that are at room temperature ensures better mixing and a fluffier texture in your cupcakes.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the ingredients helps maintain a light and airy cupcake. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Use fresh nutmeg: Grating fresh nutmeg adds a vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground nutmeg, enhancing the overall taste of your cupcakes.
• Check for doneness: Every oven is different! Make sure to check your cupcakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when they’re done.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cupcakes to cool fully on a wire rack before applying frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Eggnog Cupcakes

Presenting your Eggnog Cupcakes can be as delightful as baking them! Here are some ideas on how to make them shine during your festive gatherings.

Garnishes

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg: A light dusting on top of the frosted cupcakes adds a festive touch and enhances the seasonal flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of coconut cream offers a non-dairy option that complements the moistness of the cupcakes beautifully.
• Cinnamon sticks: Placing a small cinnamon stick beside each cupcake not only looks charming but also provides an extra hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Spiced hot cider: This warm beverage pairs wonderfully with the flavors of eggnog, creating a cozy atmosphere for any gathering.
• Gingerbread cookies: The robust spices in gingerbread cookies complement the creamy sweetness of eggnog cupcakes, making for a delightful dessert duo.
• Christmas fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and apples balances out the richness of the cupcakes, adding color and zest to your dessert table.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cupcakes, making for an inviting spread that caters to all tastes.

Enjoy these Eggnog Cupcakes as part of your holiday celebrations—they’re sure to bring smiles and warmth to every gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Eggnog Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season. You can whip them up ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavor throughout the festivities!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Don’t forget to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• Allow frozen cupcakes to thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving.
• If you prefer warm cupcakes, you can reheat them gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Eggnog Cupcakes.

Can I make Eggnog Cupcakes without eggs?

Yes! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute.

How long do Eggnog Cupcakes stay fresh?

Eggnog Cupcakes will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days. If refrigerated, they can last for about a week. Just make sure they are stored in an airtight container!

Can I use different spices in my Eggnog Cupcakes?

Absolutely! While nutmeg is traditional, you can experiment with cinnamon or even ginger to add your personal twist to these festive treats.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Eggnog Cupcakes as much as I do! They bring the warmth and joy of the holiday season into every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with family, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness and cheer!