Name: Irresistibly Moist Butterbeer Cupcakes for a Sweet Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 3 cups butterscotch beer (Cream soda can be substituted.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (Packed); 1/4 cup granulated white sugar (For balanced sweetness); 2 whole eggs (At room temperature); 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract (For aromatic flavor); 1 tsp butter extract (Enhances buttery flavor); 1/3 cup butterscotch chips (Melted and slightly cooled); 1/2 cup buttermilk (At room temperature); 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (Spoon and leveled then sifted); 1 1/2 tsp baking powder (For cupcake rise); 1/4 tsp baking soda (Balances acidity); 1/2 tsp salt (Enhances flavor); 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (Softened); 1 cup butterscotch chips (Melted and slightly cooled); 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar (Sifted); 3/4 tsp butter extract; 1/2 tsp vanilla; 1/4 cup butterscotch chips; 1 tbsp heavy cream; 1/2 tbsp honey

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As the scent of freshly baked goods dances through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a little nostalgic. These Butterbeer Cupcakes whisk me away to a world of magic and warmth, reminiscent of cozy evenings spent with friends. Perfect for any gathering, these cupcakes bring a fun twist to dessert with their rich butterscotch flavor, all while being incredibly simple to make. You'll love how quickly they come together, transforming your kitchen into a delightful bakery in no time. With an irresistible buttercream frosting and a drizzle of luscious ganache, these treats are bound to be the highlight of your next celebration. Curious about how to whip up a batch that will enchant your friends and family? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!

Why Are Butterbeer Cupcakes So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: Each bite delivers a rich burst of butterscotch that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Easy to Make: The simple process means even kitchen novices can achieve bakery-level results without stress.

Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or casual get-together, these cupcakes are sure to steal the show.

Kid-Friendly Fun: With a whimsical nod to the beloved drink, they're a great treat for parties with children or nostalgic adults alike.

Customizable Delight: Mix up your frosting or add festive sprinkles to match any occasion, making these cupcakes incredibly versatile.

Whip up a batch today and experience the joy of homemade sweets! Don’t forget to check out our guide on decorating cupcakes for some creative inspiration.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

Butterscotch beer – 3 cups (710 ml) adds a unique flavor, but cream soda will work as a substitute!
Unsalted butter – ½ cup (112 g), softened for a rich moistness in each bite.
Light brown sugar – ½ cup (110 g), packed to infuse deep caramel notes.
Granulated white sugar – ¼ cup (50 g) for balanced sweetness.
Eggs – 2, at room temperature to ensure a well-emulsified batter.
Vanilla bean paste or extract – 2 teaspoon for a warm aromatic note.
Butter extract – 1 teaspoon enhances the buttery flavor beautifully.
Butterscotch chips – ⅓ cup (56 g), melted and slightly cooled to boost the butterscotch flavor.
Buttermilk – ½ cup (120 ml), at room temperature helps to create tender cupcakes.
All-purpose flour – 1 ¾ cups (219 g), spooned and leveled then sifted for lightness.
Baking powder – 1 ½ teaspoon ensures a nice rise for fluffy cupcakes.
Baking soda – ¼ teaspoon balances the acidity in the buttermilk.
Salt – ½ teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.

For the Frosting

Unsalted butter – 1 ½ cups (336 g), softened to create a creamy texture.
Butterscotch chips – 1 cup (170 g), melted and slightly cooled to deepen the frosting's flavor.
Powdered sugar – 2 ¼ cups (290 g), measured then sifted to achieve a smooth frosting.
Butter extract – ¾ teaspoon for an extra layer of buttery goodness.
Vanilla – ½ teaspoon adds warmth and complexity.

For the Ganache

Butterscotch chips – ¼ cup (42 g) for a silky drizzle over the cupcakes.
Heavy cream – 1 tablespoon will help achieve a luscious texture.
Honey – ½ tablespoon adds a delightful hint of sweetness to the ganache.

Experience the magic of Butterbeer Cupcakes and let each bite take you on a nostalgic journey!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterbeer Cupcakes

Step 1: Reduce the Butterscotch Beer
Start by pouring 3 cups of butterscotch beer into a large pot. Set the pot over medium heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce to about ½ cup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once reduced, take the pot off the heat and let it cool until it’s slightly warm to the touch.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
While the butterscotch beer is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab two standard cupcake pans and line them with vibrant cupcake liners. These will not only make your Butterbeer Cupcakes look delightful but also help with easy removal once baked.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to ensure there are no lumps and that the mixture is well combined. Setting this mixture aside prepares you for a well-balanced batter.

Step 4: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large bowl, take ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and add ½ cup of light brown sugar along with ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fluffy and light in color, creating the perfect base for your Butterbeer Cupcakes.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Extracts
Next, add 2 room-temperature eggs along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste and 1 teaspoon of butter extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until everything is thoroughly incorporated and the color lightens, around 1-2 minutes, ensuring a rich flavor.

Step 6: Mix in the Butterscotch Beer and Chips
To deepen the flavor of your Butterbeer Cupcakes, carefully mix in the cooled butterscotch beer reduction and ⅓ cup of melted butterscotch chips until fully combined. The mixture should look silky, and the aroma will be absolutely enchanting.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients with Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients you whisked together earlier and ½ cup of room-temperature buttermilk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix. You'll want a smooth and slightly thick batter that pours effortlessly into your cupcake liners.

Step 8: Fill the Cupcake Liners
With your batter ready, use a scoop or spoon to divide the mixture evenly among your paper liners, filling each about ⅔ full. This allows for the lovely rise that will create perfect cupcakes, so you're set for a delightful treat with buttery goodness.

Step 9: Bake the Cupcakes
Carefully place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for 14–18 minutes. Keep an eye on them! The cupcakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be gently golden and spring back when touched.

Step 10: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. This helps set their shape. After this, transfer them gently to a cooling rack where they can cool completely before you frost them.

Step 11: Make the Butterscotch Buttercream
While the cupcakes are cooling, it's time to make the frosting! In a large bowl, whip 1 ½ cups of softened unsalted butter on high speed for 5-10 minutes until it turns pale and fluffy. This will provide a luxurious base for your butterscotch frosting.

Step 12: Add the Butterscotch Chips to the Frosting
Now, mix in 1 cup of melted butterscotch chips into the whipped butter until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and velvety, inviting you to dive into a delightful frosting experience for your Butterbeer Cupcakes.

Step 13: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar and Extracts
Gradually add 2 ¼ cups of sifted powdered sugar into the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated. Then, blend in ¾ teaspoon of butter extract and ½ teaspoon of vanilla until light and fluffy. This frosting will enhance the overall butterscotch experience!

Step 14: Prepare the Butterscotch Ganache
For the ganache, combine ¼ cup of butterscotch chips and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30–45 seconds, then stir until smooth, mixing in ½ tablespoon of honey to create a luscious drizzle that will elevate your cupcakes.

Step 15: Frost and Drizzle Your Cupcakes
Now that your Butterbeer Cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag to generously frost each cupcake with the butterscotch buttercream. Finally, drizzle them with the warm butterscotch ganache, adding a decadent finishing touch that's simply irresistible!

Butterbeer Cupcake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these Butterbeer Cupcakes! Each twist offers a unique flavor sensation that's sure to delight your taste buds.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a lovely, tender cupcake. You'll never miss the gluten!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of unsalted butter and a dairy-free milk alternative for buttermilk. The flavor remains indulgent!
Extra Butterscotch: Add an extra ⅓ cup of butterscotch chips into the batter for a delightful gooey surprise in every bite. More is definitely better with these cupcakes!
Spiced Delight: Blend in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy flavor twist that complements the butterscotch beautifully. Perfect for the fall season!
Frosting Fun: Experiment with a cream cheese frosting instead of butterscotch buttercream for a tangy contrast that’ll elevate the sweetness of your cupcakes. It's a delightful balance!
Add Some Heat: For those who love a kick, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the batter for a sweet-and-spicy surprise that will have everyone talking!
Different Drizzle: Swap the butterscotch ganache for a chocolate ganache for a rich and decadent contrast. Chocolate lovers will adore this variation!
Seasonal Sprinkles: Top with festive, seasonal sprinkles to match any occasion, adding a splash of color and fun to every cupcake. These little details make all the difference!

Feel inspired? Whip up a batch of these delightful variations and let your Butterbeer Cupcakes steal the spotlight at your next gathering! Don't forget to check out our guide on how to frost cupcakes for some creative frosting techniques that will wow your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Butterbeer Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep! You can make the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance; just store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent the butterscotch chips from hardening. The baked cupcakes themselves can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For the frosting, prepare it in advance and refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature and re-whip it slightly before piping. When you're ready to serve, simply frost the cooled cupcakes and drizzle with ganache for that oh-so-delicious finishing touch!

How to Store and Freeze Butterbeer Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Store leftover Butterbeer Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep them fresher longer, refrigerate the cupcakes in a sealed container for up to 5 days, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm cupcake, heat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will give you that freshly baked feel, reminding you of that magical Butterbeer flavor!

Expert Tips for Perfect Butterbeer Cupcakes

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for a well-emulsified batter, preventing a dense texture in the Butterbeer Cupcakes.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined, especially when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes, so keep it gentle!
Cool Completely: Let your cupcakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the butterscotch buttercream. This ensures a perfect presentation.
Pipe Frosting Creatively: Use a piping bag with a decorative tip for a beautiful frosting swirl that not only looks great but adds extra buttercream goodness.
Drizzle with Ganache: Make sure your butterscotch ganache is slightly warm, not hot. This creates a smooth drizzle without melting the frosting.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap out extracts or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the butterscotch flavors and make your Butterbeer Cupcakes uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Butterbeer Cupcakes?

When craving something sweet, whisk your loved ones away to a delightful culinary adventure with these whimsical treats.

Spiced Apple Cider: Perfect for autumn, this warm drink adds a comforting note that complements the butterscotch flavor beautifully.
Caramel Apple Slices: The crunch of fresh apples drizzled with caramel echoes the rich butterscotch, making for a fun, shared dessert experience.
Chocolate Milkshake: The creamy, chocolaty goodness pairs well with the cupcakes for a nostalgic treat, bringing back childhood memories.

For a lovely brunch gathering, consider serving these cupcakes alongside a warm glass of mulled wine. The spices in the wine will harmonize with the flavors of the Butterbeer Cupcakes, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side provides a creamy contrast to the texture of the cupcakes and enhances their sweetness.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Elevate your dessert table with a seasonal favorite; their spice will beautifully balance the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Coffee or Espresso: A strong brew serves nicely as a pick-me-up against the sweet decadence of butterscotch to finish your meal perfectly.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cupcake elevates the overall presentation and adds a touch of elegance.

Whether for a festive celebration or a cozy gathering, pair these Butterbeer Cupcakes with delightful accompaniments for a magical spread!

Butterbeer Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

What kind of butterscotch beer should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either butterscotch beer or cream soda for your Butterbeer Cupcakes. Both options add that wonderful, nostalgic flavor—so pick whichever you have on hand!

How should I store leftover cupcakes?
For optimal freshness, store leftover Butterbeer Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you'd like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.

Can I freeze my Butterbeer Cupcakes?
Yes! You can freeze unfrosted Butterbeer Cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge, and then frost as desired!

What do I do if my cupcakes are dry?
If you find your Butterbeer Cupcakes turning out dry, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not measuring ingredients accurately. Ensure you're measuring flour properly, using the spoon-and-level method, and mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. Also, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it's accurate.

Are these cupcakes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Great question! You can easily make these Butterbeer Cupcakes gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it's one meant for baking, as those will provide the right texture and flavor.

Can pets have any of the ingredients in the cupcake?
It's very important to keep in mind that some ingredients in Butterbeer Cupcakes, such as chocolate and certain sweeteners, can be harmful to pets. Always keep these delights out of reach from furry friends. If your pet ever consumes something they shouldn’t, consult your veterinarian.