As I flipped through my favorite holiday recipe book last year, a charming cupcake recipe caught my eye—Eggnog Cupcakes, spiced just right with nutmeg and enveloped in a creamy frosting that promised to make anyone’s festive gathering feel extra special. These soft and tender cupcakes aren’t just a delicious dessert; they’re a nostalgic nod to the flavors we cherish during the Christmas season. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to whip up, allowing even the busiest home chefs to impress their guests with minimal effort. With each bite, you’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring that warm, cozy feeling of the holidays to your table. Curious how to make these delightful cupcakes a star at your next celebration? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Eggnog Cupcakes Irresistible?
Holiday Magic: These eggnog cupcakes capture the essence of festive cheer with every tender bite.
Decadent Frosting: Topped with a creamy nutmeg cream cheese frosting, they’re as indulgent as they are beautiful.
Quick to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up even during the busiest holiday season.
Versatile Treat: Whether for a cozy family gathering or a holiday party, these cupcakes appeal to everyone’s sweet tooth.
Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite transports you to cherished holiday moments, making them a delightful addition to your festive spread.
Elevate Your Dessert: Serve these with a warm drink like mulled wine, and you’ve got a winning combination!
Eggnog Cupcake Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- Cake Flour – Provides a light texture; feel free to substitute all-purpose flour if needed.
- Baking Powder – Essential for rising; always check the freshness for best results.
- Baking Soda – Helps balance the acidity from the eggnog; don’t skip this!
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Ground Nutmeg – The star spice that brings that classic eggnog flavor—adjust to your taste!
- Ground Cinnamon – Works beautifully with nutmeg to add warmth and depth.
- Unsalted Butter (softened) – Adds rich flavor and moisture to keep the cupcakes tender.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and contributes to a lovely texture.
- Egg Whites (room temperature) – Ensures a light and fluffy structure; room temp is key for volume.
- Vanilla Extract – Lends a warm, aromatic sweetness to your cupcakes.
- Eggnog (room temperature) – This is the star ingredient that makes the cupcakes so special; be sure it’s at room temp for easy mixing.
For the Nutmeg Cream Cheese Frosting
- Unsalted Butter (frosting) – A perfect creamy base for your luscious frosting.
- Cream Cheese (cold) – Adds a tangy flavor and sturdy texture to your frosting.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sifting it prevents lumps and ensures a smooth finish.
Now you have everything you need to get started on these delightful Eggnog Cupcakes! Let’s turn your kitchen into a holiday wonderland.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. This will ensure your eggnog cupcakes release easily after baking and helps maintain their tender texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 1 ¾ cups of cake flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This step will aerate the dry ingredients, allowing for a lighter cupcake texture. Set aside as you prepare the wet mixture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, indicating that the sugar has dissolved into the butter, which is essential for achieving the perfect cupcake texture.
Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla
Next, incorporate 3 room-temperature egg whites and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into your butter and sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed for another 1-2 minutes until fully blended and the mixture appears pale and creamy. This will help create a fluffy structure for your eggnog cupcakes.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of room-temperature eggnog. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.
Step 6: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Carefully fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. The batter should be smooth and somewhat thick. This will allow your eggnog cupcakes to rise just right during baking, achieving a beautiful dome shape.
Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes
Place the filled muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cupcakes should be lightly golden on top and spring back when gently pressed.
Step 8: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling is crucial before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, prepare the nutmeg cream cheese frosting. Beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter on high speed for about 5-7 minutes until fluffy and pale. This step adds air, giving your frosting a light texture that complements the cupcakes beautifully.
Step 10: Mix in Cream Cheese and Sugar
Add 8 oz of cold cream cheese to the butter and mix until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Once combined, increase the speed to medium until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to spread.
Step 11: Add Nutmeg to Frosting
Finally, adjust the flavor of the frosting by adding ground nutmeg to taste. Mix well to ensure the nutmeg is evenly distributed throughout the frosting, enhancing the festive flavor profile of your eggnog cupcakes.
Step 12: Frost the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread your creamy nutmeg frosting onto each one. This luscious topping not only looks stunning but also adds to the delightful experience of these soft, tender eggnog cupcakes!
Expert Tips for Eggnog Cupcakes
Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon and level method to ensure proper flour measurement; scooping can lead to dense cupcakes.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature egg whites and eggnog for a lighter texture; cold ingredients can cause gummy cupcakes.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients without overmixing for soft and tender eggnog cupcakes; less mixing keeps the batter light.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting; warm cupcakes will cause the cream cheese frosting to melt and lose its shape.
Taste Test the Frosting: Adjust the amount of ground nutmeg in your frosting to match your preference; a little extra can elevate the flavor!
Eggnog Cupcakes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your eggnog cupcakes! Each variation brings a new taste to delight your taste buds.
- Chai Twist: Replace eggnog with chai tea for a spiced delight that’s perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Substitute half of the eggnog for cocoa powder mixed with water for a rich, chocolatey flavor. Chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist!
- Nut-Free Option: Use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour and omit ground nutmeg for a smoother flavor profile.
- Vegan Treat: Replace egg whites with flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a plant-based version. Everyone will enjoy this friendly twist!
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for an extra sweet and crunchy crown. This touch adds another level of festive cheer!
- Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar in the cupcakes with maple syrup for a deeply sweet and earthy flavor. Just remember to reduce the liquid eggnog slightly!
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprisingly delightful spicy contrast—an adventurous flavor that might just steal the spotlight!
- Fruit Surprise: Fold in some finely chopped cranberries or apples into the batter before baking for a burst of fresh flavor and added moisture. These fruity bits add delightful surprises with each bite!
These variations make it easy to personalize your cupcakes to fit any mood or occasion. Enjoy experimenting as you whip up these seasonal delights!
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Cupcakes
Room Temperature: These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
Fridge: Store the eggnog cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy these cupcakes later, freeze them (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To serve frozen cupcakes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bring them to room temperature before frosting and serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Cupcakes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can bake the cupcakes up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The nutmeg cream cheese frosting can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead and kept refrigerated—just give it a quick whisk before frosting the cupcakes to restore its fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cupcakes and enjoy their delightful flavors just as if they were freshly made! By prepping ahead, you’ll bring the festive spirit to your table with minimal last-minute effort.
What to Serve with Eggnog Cupcakes
These delightful cupcakes are the perfect centerpiece for your festive table, and pairing them with the right treats will elevate your holiday experience.
- Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this classic drink balances the sweetness of the cupcakes, making every bite cozy and comforting.
- Mulled Wine: Warm spiced wine enhances the holiday flavors, creating a merry connection that complements the cupcake’s festive taste.
- Spiced Apple Cider: The zing of cinnamon and cloves in sweet cider adds a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the nutmeg frosting.
- Christmas Cookies: A platter of assorted cookies brings nostalgia and variety, allowing you to mix textures and flavors for a joyful dessert table.
- Gingerbread Men: Their rich, spicy notes echo the flavors of eggnog, creating a delicious harmony on your holiday spread; don’t forget the royal icing!
- Pecan Pie: This buttery pie brings a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the soft texture of the eggnog cupcakes.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream adds a luscious touch, intensifying the flavors and providing an enjoyable temperature contrast.
- Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits add a brightness and lightness to your dessert, balancing out the richness of the cupcakes beautifully.
Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best eggnog for the cupcakes?
Absolutely! When selecting eggnog, opt for a brand that uses real dairy and natural spices. Check for a rich, creamy texture without artificial flavors or sweeteners. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making homemade eggnog for an even more authentic flavor!
How should I store my eggnog cupcakes?
Very! For optimal freshness, store your eggnog cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful moistness. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before indulging for the best taste and texture!
Can I freeze eggnog cupcakes?
You can! To freeze your eggnog cupcakes, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then let them come to room temperature before frosting.
What do I do if my cupcakes came out dense?
No worries! If your eggnog cupcakes turned out dense, it might be due to overmixing or improper flour measurement. Make sure to use the spoon and level technique for measuring flour, and mix your ingredients just until combined. If you’d like, you can whip the egg whites separately to incorporate more air before folding them into the batter.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Very much! To make gluten-free eggnog cupcakes, substitute the cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Keep an eye on the batter consistency, as gluten-free flours might absorb liquid differently. Follow the rest of the recipe as directed, and enjoy a festive treat that everyone can enjoy!
Is there a way to adjust the nutmeg flavor in the frosting?
Certainly! If you prefer less or more nutmeg in your cream cheese frosting, start by adding a quarter teaspoon at a time, mixing well with each addition until it reaches your desired level of spice. This way, you can tailor the frosting to be just how you like it—perfect for personal tastes!
Eggnog Cupcakes that Melt in Your Mouth with Nutmeg Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon.
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add egg whites and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until pale and creamy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with eggnog, mixing until just combined.
- Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat softened unsalted butter on high speed until fluffy, then mix in cold cream cheese.
- Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Mix in ground nutmeg to taste.
- Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.