Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe – Creamy, Spiced & Festive

Eggnog Cupcakes are a festive twist on classic cupcakes, perfect for holiday parties, cozy winter gatherings, or Pinterest-worthy dessert tables. Soft, moist, and infused with the warm flavors of eggnog and nutmeg, these cupcakes bring holiday cheer in every bite. Topped with creamy eggnog frosting, they’re a delicious treat for both kids and adults (with or without alcohol).

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 cupcakes

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup eggnog
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Optional: 1–2 tbsp rum or bourbon (for adults)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Cooling rack
• Piping bag and tip (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and mix well.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in vanilla extract and eggnog.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until smooth.
6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide batter evenly into the 12 liners, filling about 2/3 full.
7. Bake: Bake 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Prepare Frosting: Beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, eggnog, nutmeg, and optional rum until creamy.
9. Frost Cupcakes: Pipe or spread frosting over cooled cupcakes. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon.

Tips and Variations

• Non-alcoholic version: Skip the rum or bourbon for kid-friendly cupcakes.
• Extra spice: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for more warmth.
• Moistness booster: Replace 1–2 tbsp of flour with almond flour for added tenderness.
• Topping ideas: Crushed gingersnaps, cinnamon sugar, or a drizzle of caramel.

Health Benefits

• Eggnog base: Contains calcium and protein from milk and eggs.
• Spices: Nutmeg and cinnamon may help with digestion and provide antioxidants.
• Portion control: Mini cupcakes or single servings help enjoy the flavor without overindulging.
• Homemade dessert: Allows you to control sugar and ingredients for a healthier alternative to store-bought treats.

Nutrition Facts (Per Cupcake – Estimated)

Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and frosting additions.

Perfect Pairings

• Drinks: Hot cocoa, spiced chai, coffee, or eggnog lattes.
• Shakes: Vanilla or pumpkin-flavored milkshake complements the spice.
• Dessert Boards: Pair with gingerbread cookies, shortbread, or caramel candies.
• Holiday Meals: Serve after a festive dinner or at brunch with mimosas.

FAQs

Can I make eggnog cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, bake and cool cupcakes completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Frost just before serving.

Can I freeze eggnog cupcakes?

Unfrosted cupcakes freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Can I make them vegan?

You can substitute butter with plant-based margarine, use flax eggs, and dairy-free eggnog for a vegan version.

Can I reduce sugar?

Yes, reduce sugar slightly in the batter and frosting, but too much reduction may affect texture and sweetness.

Why do my cupcakes crack on top?

Overbaking or too high an oven temperature can cause cracks. Check at the minimum baking time and avoid opening the oven mid-bake.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog Cupcakes are the ultimate festive dessert—soft, spiced, and perfectly creamy. Easy to make and visually appealing, they’re perfect for Pinterest users looking to share seasonal recipes. With complementary drinks like hot cocoa or eggnog lattes, these cupcakes bring holiday magic to your dessert table.