Bubbly Bliss: Champagne Cupcakes for a Dazzling New Year
New Year’s Eve calls for a celebration, and what better way to toast to new beginnings than with Champagne-Infused Cupcakes? These delightful treats combine the light, fluffy texture of a perfect cupcake with the sparkling flavor of champagne. Topped with a rich, creamy frosting and a sprinkle of edible gold, they’re as dazzling as the midnight fireworks. Whether you’re hosting a grand party or enjoying a cozy night in, these cupcakes are the perfect sweet ending to the year.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) champagne
1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
For the Champagne Frosting:
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
2-3 tablespoons champagne
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Edible gold sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine with Champagne
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the champagne and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Bake
Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well. Add the champagne and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
Step 9: Decorate
Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with edible gold sprinkles for a festive finish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the cupcakes dense. Mix until just combined.
Test with a Toothpick: To avoid overbaking, check the cupcakes a minute or two before the suggested time.
Champagne Quality: Use a champagne you enjoy drinking, as the flavor shines through in the cupcakes and frosting.
These Champagne-Infused Cupcakes are a delightful way to ring in the New Year. Their light, bubbly flavor pairs beautifully with a glass of sparkling wine, making them a show-stopping addition to your celebration. With their golden sparkle and rich frosting, these cupcakes are as celebratory as the countdown to midnight. Cheers to a sweet start to the year!