Description
These Easy Eggnog Cupcakes are moist and flavorful treats perfect for holiday parties. Made with yellow cake mix and rich eggnog, they have a hint of warm nutmeg and vanilla. Topped with a creamy eggnog frosting, these festive cupcakes are a delightful seasonal dessert that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcake Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup eggnog
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Eggnog Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup eggnog
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the ingredients for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow space for rising during baking.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean when fully baked.
- Cool the Cupcakes: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, eggnog, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Using a piping bag or a knife, frost the cooled cupcakes evenly. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top for garnish and added flavor.
Notes
- For a richer, more adult flavor, substitute spiced rum or rum extract for part of the vanilla extract in both the batter and frosting.
- These cupcakes can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to achieve the best texture and appearance.
- If you prefer a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- These cupcakes are ideal for holiday celebrations and can be decorated with festive sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra touch.
