Why You’ll Love Easy Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe
Because it captures the beloved taste of eggnog in an approachable cupcake form — perfect for holiday gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging in cozy seasonal flavors. The frosting is light and creamy rather than overly sweet or waxy, making these cupcakes both festive and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cupcakes:
1 (15.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
1 ½ cups eggnog
4 eggs
¼ cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Frosting:
1 cup eggnog
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ cup butter
¼ cup shortening
1 cup white sugar
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease 24 muffin cups or line with paper liners.
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In a bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix, eggnog, eggs, melted butter, and nutmeg until the batter is smooth.
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Pour the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
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Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the tops are golden and spring back when lightly pressed. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
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To make the frosting, combine eggnog and flour in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and cool completely.
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In a separate bowl, beat together butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
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Gradually beat in the cooled eggnog mixture until frosting is smooth and fluffy.
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Frost the cooled cupcakes and serve.
Servings and timing
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Yield: 24 cupcakes
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Bake time: 12–14 minutes
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Additional cooling/frosting time: 20 minutes
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Total time: Approximately 55 minutes
Variations
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Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or ¼ teaspoon ground cloves for a spiced version.
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Use chocolate or spice cake mix for a different flavor base.
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Substitute frosting with cream cheese frosting flavored with eggnog and nutmeg.
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Bake in a mini muffin tin and reduce the bake time to 8–10 minutes.
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Garnish with ground nutmeg, cinnamon, chopped nuts, or caramel drizzle.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Keep frosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or refrigerate for 2–3 days.
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Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before frosting.
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Reheating: To warm, remove frosting, microwave the cupcake for 10–15 seconds, and then re-frost before serving.
FAQs
What kind of eggnog should I use?
You can use either store-bought or homemade eggnog. Full-fat varieties add the most flavor and richness.
Can I make this recipe without flour in the frosting?
Flour helps thicken the frosting. If you omit it, use 1 tablespoon cornstarch as a substitute, but consistency may vary.
Is it okay to replace shortening in the frosting with all butter?
Yes. The texture will be softer but still delicious. The frosting may not hold shape as well.
Can I reduce the sugar in the frosting?
Yes. You can reduce the sugar or use confectioners’ sugar instead, adjusting the amount for desired sweetness and texture.
How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?
The tops should spring back when lightly pressed, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I add alcohol to these cupcakes for an adult version?
Yes. Add 1 tablespoon of rum or brandy to the batter or frosting. Be mindful this makes the dessert alcoholic.
Can I make this into a layer cake instead of cupcakes?
Yes. Use two 9-inch round cake pans and adjust the bake time to about 25–30 minutes.
Can I use this recipe for a gluten-free version?
Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and substitute a gluten-free flour in the frosting. The results may vary slightly in texture.
Will these cupcakes hold up for a party or travel?
Yes. Frost just before serving and transport in a cupcake carrier to maintain their shape and appearance.
Can I garnish the cupcakes?
Absolutely. Try a sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon, chopped pecans, or a small cinnamon stick for presentation.
Conclusion
These eggnog cupcakes offer a delicious, festive twist on a holiday classic. With a moist, spiced cake and creamy eggnog frosting, they’re a crowd-pleaser at any seasonal gathering. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or simply enjoying the flavor of eggnog in a new form, these cupcakes are easy to make and full of charm.
