Eggnog and bourbon. A combination that screams holiday magic. These cupcakes? A warm hug in dessert form. Light, fluffy, and spiced just right.
Today, I’ll walk you through every step. From mixing the batter to frosting perfection. No stress, just fun—and a delicious reward at the end.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll love making these. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of eggnog cupcakes with bourbon!
What Are Eggnog Cupcakes with Bourbon?
Eggnog cupcakes are the perfect holiday-inspired dessert. They combine the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Add a splash of bourbon, and you get a sophisticated treat with just the right kick.
Think of these cupcakes as a fusion of classic eggnog and moist, spiced cake. They’re topped with a dreamy bourbon-infused frosting that balances the sweetness beautifully. Perfect for holiday parties, gifts, or just indulging at home.
Key Terms to Know
Eggnog
A rich, creamy holiday drink made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.
Bourbon
A type of whiskey known for its caramel and vanilla undertones, adding depth and warmth to the cupcakes.
Frosting
A sweet, creamy topping made from butter, sugar, and flavoring, used to decorate and enhance cupcakes.
Materials Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Structure for the cupcakes |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 tsp | Helps the cupcakes rise |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Enhances flavors |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp | Classic eggnog spice |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp | Adds warmth |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup | Moisture and richness |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetness and texture |
| Eggs | 2 large | Structure and richness |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Eggnog | 3/4 cup | Brings in creamy, holiday flavor |
| Bourbon | 2 tbsp | Adds depth and warmth |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups | For frosting |
| Heavy cream | 2 tbsp | Creamy texture for frosting |
How to Make Eggnog Cupcakes with Bourbon
1. Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and eggnog to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in bourbon for that extra depth of flavor.
2. Bake the Cupcakes
- Fill cupcake liners about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
3. Make the Bourbon Frosting
- Beat butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Add bourbon and heavy cream, beating until fluffy.
4. Frost and Serve
- Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
- Sprinkle a little nutmeg on top for extra flair.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix—this keeps the cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Adjust bourbon to your taste—less for subtle flavor, more for a stronger kick.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Overmixing the Batter
- Leads to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
Skipping the Cooling Step
- Frosting melts if the cupcakes are warm. Patience pays off!
Using Too Much Bourbon
- Balance is key. A little bourbon goes a long way!
Variations You Can Try
Eggnog Cupcakes (No Bourbon)
- Simply omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version.
Chocolate Bourbon Cupcakes
- Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate twist.
Caramel Bourbon Frosting
- Swap heavy cream with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent topping.
Final Thoughts
Eggnog cupcakes with bourbon bring warmth, flavor, and holiday cheer. They’re easy to make and even easier to love. Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or just because.
Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking!