As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the delightful scent of spices and sweet treats. There’s a certain joy that comes from baking, and these Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes perfectly capture that spirit! Imagine the soft, moist vanilla cake kissed with nutmeg, and the creamy eggnog buttercream frosting dancing on your taste buds. It’s the kind of indulgence that turns a simple gathering into a festive celebration.
After a long day of holiday shopping, there’s nothing quite like retreating to the comforting mix of flour, sugar, and those warm, nostalgic flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself, these cupcakes bring the best of the season into every bite. Let’s dive in and create a delicious treat that will have everyone reaching for a second (or third!) cupcake!
Why are Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes a must-bake?
Festive flavors: Every bite bursts with the warm spices of nutmeg and the creamy richness of eggnog, perfectly embodying holiday cheer.
Easy process: This recipe simplifies the baking experience, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake them fresh right before your gathering.
Versatile delights: These cupcakes are perfect for holiday parties, cozy get-togethers, or simply enjoying at home with loved ones.
Crowd-pleaser: With their fluffy texture and rich frosting, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering, leaving everyone wanting more!
So gather your ingredients and enjoy the delightful process of making these cupcakes that truly brighten your holiday celebrations!
Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and moisture; use room temperature for better mixing.
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour – Main structure; King Arthur flour is recommended for best results.
- 1.5 tbsp vegetable oil – Adds moisture and tenderness; you can substitute it with canola oil if needed.
- 3/4 cup sugar – Sweetens the cupcakes; any granulated sugar will work.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances overall flavor.
- 3/4 tsp nutmeg – Key spice for eggnog flavor; freshly ground offers a stronger aroma.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
- 9 tbsp eggnog – Provides moisture and a distinct eggnog flavor; store-bought or homemade works great.
- 1.5 tsp baking powder – Serves as a leavening agent for rise.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter – Ensures richness; softened butter mixes more easily.
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Adds creaminess and flavor; must be softened to room temperature.
- 1 tsp nutmeg – Reinforces the eggnog flavor; fresh is preferred for maximum impact.
- 1/2 cup shortening – Creates a creamy texture and helps the frosting hold its shape.
- 1/4 tsp rum extract – Optional for extra depth; can be omitted for a family-friendly version.
- 4 tbsp eggnog – Adds extra flavor; adjust the quantity for your desired frosting consistency.
- 4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sifted to remove lumps.
- Pinch of salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cupcake liners in your baking tray, ensuring they are ready for your delightful batter.
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Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial for a light texture, so set it aside for later!
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Cream the softened butter, sugar, and vegetable oil in a large bowl for about 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This adds air and lightness to your cupcakes.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, then add the vanilla extract after the second egg. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
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Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients by alternating between the flour mixture and the eggnog. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
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Fill the cupcake liners halfway with the batter. Remember to maintain consistency for even baking. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Cool the cupcakes on a wire rack until they’re completely cool. This is important; frosting hot cupcakes will cause the icing to melt!
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Prepare the frosting by beating together the softened unsalted butter and shortening in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, eggnog, rum extract (if using), nutmeg, and pinch of salt until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
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Frost your cooled cupcakes with the delicious eggnog buttercream frosting. Use a piping bag or simply spread it on with a knife!
Optional: Sprinkle a bit of extra nutmeg on top for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes?
Get ready to create a festive spread that perfectly complements these indulgent treats!
- Rich Hot Chocolate: This velvety drink brings a comforting warmth, enhancing the creamy flavors of the eggnog cupcakes.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Serve this fruity beverage warm, and its cinnamon notes will elevate the holiday spirit alongside your cupcakes.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast, melting beautifully against the soft cupcake texture.
- Peppermint Bark: The crunchy, minty flavor of peppermint bark offers a delightful contrast, balancing the sweetness of your treats.
- Nutty Biscotti: These crunchy delights are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, creating a cozy pairing with your cupcakes.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a tart balance to the sweetness of the cupcakes, refreshing your palate.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Full of warm spices, these cookies echo the flavors of your eggnog cupcakes, complementing them perfectly.
- Almond Milk: For a lighter option, serve chilled almond milk. Its nutty essence paired with spices will enhance the holiday flavors.
- Pecan Pie: This rich dessert adds a festive touch to your table, offering a beloved classic that pairs beautifully with eggnog.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream on the side to accentuate the rich buttercream frosting—it’s simply delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cupcakes themselves up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cupcakes, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the frosting, prepare it up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in a sealed container. Just before serving, allow the frosting to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then frost the cupcakes. This way, you’ll have festive treats ready with minimal effort, and they’ll be just as delicious as when freshly baked!
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes
Room Temperature: Store unfrosted Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you’re frosting them, keep the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving!
Freezer: Unfrosted cupcakes can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frost them right before serving for the best results.
Reheating: For a cozy treat, warm the cupcakes in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving, ensuring they’re not too hot to enjoy!
Expert Tips for Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes
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Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature, as this helps create a fluffier batter by allowing better incorporation with other ingredients.
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Freshly Ground Nutmeg: Using freshly ground nutmeg for both the cupcakes and frosting will enhance the eggnog flavor significantly, so don’t skip this step!
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent dense cupcakes; a few lumps are okay!
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Check for Doneness: Utilize a toothpick test around the 16-minute mark. Remove the cupcakes when a toothpick comes out with only a few moist crumbs for the perfect texture.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting to keep the icing intact and beautifully creamy.
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Storage Tips: Keep the Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the fridge for the best taste!
Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your cupcakes! These easy swaps and tweaks will elevate your baking experience.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added health benefits, delivering a wholesome twist to the classic recipe.
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Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to infuse an intriguing marzipan-like quality that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Just a teaspoon does the trick!
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Chocolate Twist: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a rich, chocolatey indulgence that creates a decadent contrast against the eggnog flavors. These cupcakes will be an instant favorite!
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Spiced Rum: Enhance the festive vibe by incorporating 1/4 cup of spiced rum into the batter or frosting for an extra kick. Just be sure to adjust the eggnog amount to maintain consistency.
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter and eggnog with non-dairy alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk to create a delicious dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
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Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to the cupcake batter for a bright, citrusy lift that balances the richness of the eggnog perfectly.
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Nut Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of your frosted cupcakes for a delightful crunch and an added layer of flavor, making each bite even more exciting!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a warm caramel sauce over frosted cupcakes for a luscious finish. It’s a sweet touch that will elevate your eggnog cupcakes to a dazzling dessert!
Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
What type of eggnog should I use for the cupcakes?
Absolutely! You can use either store-bought or homemade eggnog for these Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes. If using store-bought, look for a brand that has real ingredients for the best flavor. Homemade eggnog will add a delightful personal touch, making your cupcakes even more special!
How should I store my cupcakes after baking?
Very simple! Unfrosted Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’ve added frosting, it’s best to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving!
Can I freeze the cupcakes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfrosted Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and frost them right before serving for optimal freshness.
What common issues should I watch out for while baking?
One common issue is overmixing the batter, which can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine! Also, keep an eye on baking time. I recommend checking for doneness around the 16-minute mark—remove them from the oven when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. This will ensure a fluffy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re baking for guests with dietary restrictions, consider this: the frosting contains butter and shortening, which may not suit lactose intolerant individuals. To create a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based butters for both the cake and frosting. Additionally, adjust sugar levels to accommodate allergies, and always check your eggnog’s ingredients if you’re catering to specific dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of the eggnog in my cupcakes?
For a richer eggnog flavor in your Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes, I recommend using freshly grated nutmeg rather than pre-ground. Additionally, a splash of rum extract in the frosting brings an extra depth of flavor! If you’re serving both adults and children, you can always set aside a portion of the frosting without rum for a family-friendly batch.
Delicious Eggnog Cupcakes to Brighten Your Holiday Gatherings
Equipment
- Baking tray
- Mixing bowls
- - Mixer
- - Cupcake liners
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 2 large eggs Provides structure and moisture; use room temperature for better mixing.
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour Main structure; King Arthur flour is recommended for best results.
- 1.5 tbsp vegetable oil Adds moisture and tenderness; you can substitute it with canola oil if needed.
- 3/4 cup sugar Sweetens the cupcakes; any granulated sugar will work.
- 1/4 tsp salt Enhances overall flavor.
- 3/4 tsp nutmeg Key spice for eggnog flavor; freshly ground offers a stronger aroma.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds depth of flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
- 9 tbsp eggnog Provides moisture and a distinct eggnog flavor; store-bought or homemade works great.
- 1.5 tsp baking powder Serves as a leavening agent for rise.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter Ensures richness; softened butter mixes more easily.
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Adds creaminess and flavor; must be softened to room temperature.
- 1 tsp nutmeg Reinforces the eggnog flavor; fresh is preferred for maximum impact.
- 1/2 cup shortening Creates a creamy texture and helps the frosting hold its shape.
- 1/4 tsp rum extract Optional for extra depth; can be omitted for a family-friendly version.
- 4 tbsp eggnog Adds extra flavor; adjust the quantity for your desired frosting consistency.
- 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sifted to remove lumps.
- pinch salt Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cupcake liners in your baking tray, ensuring they are ready for your delightful batter.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial for a light texture, so set it aside for later!
- Cream the softened butter, sugar, and vegetable oil in a large bowl for about 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This adds air and lightness to your cupcakes.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, then add the vanilla extract after the second egg. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients by alternating between the flour mixture and the eggnog. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Fill the cupcake liners halfway with the batter. Remember to maintain consistency for even baking. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cupcakes on a wire rack until they’re completely cool. This is important; frosting hot cupcakes will cause the icing to melt!
- Prepare the frosting by beating together the softened unsalted butter and shortening in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, eggnog, rum extract (if using), nutmeg, and pinch of salt until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Frost your cooled cupcakes with the delicious eggnog buttercream frosting. Use a piping bag or simply spread it on with a knife!