Every holiday season, there’s a little cheer that overflows in my kitchen, and you know what fuels that joy? Eggnog Cupcakes! There’s something utterly charming about taking that traditional creamy drink and transforming it into a delightful treat that you can enjoy by the dozen. I first made these scrumptious cupcakes during a festive gathering, and let’s just say they vanished quicker than the time it takes to say “Happy Holidays!” It became instantly clear that I had stumbled upon a holiday classic that I would return to year after year.
These cupcakes are not just delicious; they’re festive little bites of joy that embody the flavors of the season. Imagine the spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg mingling together with creamy eggnog and topped with a velvety frosting; it’s like having a winter wonderland in each bite! So, pull up a chair and let’s get baking—because I can guarantee that your friends and family will be singing your praises when they get a taste of these delightful confections!
What’s in Eggnog Cupcakes?
- All-purpose flour: This is the structure of our cupcakes! I stick to King Arthur Flour for its consistent results, but any good all-purpose flour will do.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help our cupcakes rise perfectly fluffy.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground nutmeg: This is where the magic begins! Nutmeg adds that quintessential eggnog taste and warmth.
- Ground cinnamon: Like nutmeg, cinnamon brings a comforting spiciness that’s hard to resist.
- Unsalted butter: Softened to creamy perfection, it gives our cupcakes that rich, buttery flavor. I love using Organic Valley butter when I can!
- Granulated sugar: Because what’s a cupcake without some sweetness? It helps the cupcakes rise and create that tender crumb.
- Eggs: They bind everything together! I prefer organic eggs for flavor and quality.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla is the perfect aromatic companion to the spices in these cupcakes.
- Eggnog: The star ingredient! Use a good quality store-bought or homemade eggnog for the best flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for the fluffy frosting that tops our cupcakes.
- More unsalted butter: Because we can always use a little more richness in our lives!
- Cinnamon sticks: Eye-catching and delightful; perfect for garnishing our festive cupcakes.
- Ground nutmeg and cinnamon (for garnish): A little sprinkle on top makes everything look and taste even better!
Are Eggnog Cupcakes Good for You?
Now, let’s be real here—these Eggnog Cupcakes are a joyous treat, but they’re more about celebration than health. On the plus side, we have eggnog, which can provide some calcium and vitamin D, depending on how it’s made! The spices like nutmeg and cinnamon do come with their own health benefits, as they can aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to keep in mind these cupcakes are packed with sugar and butter, so moderation is key—especially if you plan to devour multiple in one sitting!
Ingredients List
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup eggnog
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2-3 tbsp eggnog (for frosting)
- Ground nutmeg and cinnamon (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (for decoration)
How to Make Eggnog Cupcakes?
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners. The smell of baking is about to take over your kitchen!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until combined. Set aside!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll want this to be airy and inviting!
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the eggnog. Start and end with the flour mixture! Mix until just combined—no overmixing allowed!
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. You want them to have room to rise.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Try not to peek too much, or they may end up lopsided!
- Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Pour in the vanilla extract and eggnog, and beat until smooth and fluffy. You might want to taste-test this—it’s that good!
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe the frosting on top of each cupcake. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg and cinnamon, and optionally place a cinnamon stick in each cupcake for decoration. Voilà! Your festive treats are ready.
Tips for the Perfect Eggnog Cupcakes
- For a whimsical twist, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon to the frosting for an adult version! Just a tablespoon will do.
- If you want a little crunch, fold in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter!
- These cupcakes freeze beautifully. Just frost them right before serving, and they’ll taste freshly baked!
- When decorating, sprinkle a little icing sugar on top for a snowy effect—because who doesn’t love a bit of holiday magic?
These Eggnog Cupcakes are an absolute showstopper for holiday parties, family gatherings, or just to treat yourself while watching your favorite holiday movies. They truly capture the essence of the season, and I can’t wait for you all to try them. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like a winter wonderland, and your taste buds will thank you! When you whip these up, don’t forget to share your experiences with me—nothing brings me more joy than hearing about your baking adventures. Happy holidays and happy baking!
