Name: Christmas Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 200 g unsalted butter (softened); 200 g caster sugar; Pinch of salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 eggs; 200 g self-raising flour; Red & green M&Ms, spearmint leaves, and Jaffas (for decorating)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Are you ready to take your festive baking to the next level with Christmas Cupcakes? Statistics show that baking during the holiday season can bring families together, creating lasting memories and delicious treats. In fact, 63% of people reported that baking is one of their favorite holiday traditions. Let’s dive into a delightful recipe that is not only easy to follow but also a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.

Ingredients Needed

For our luscious Christmas Cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

200 g unsalted butter (softened): The base that adds richness and moisture.
200 g caster sugar: For that sweet touch, enhancing the cupcake’s overall flavor.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates flavors.
1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla essence): Adds warmth and a comforting aroma.
4 eggs: Essential for structure and richness. Look for free-range eggs for better flavor.
200 g self-raising flour: Provides the perfect lift for your cupcakes.
Red & green M&Ms, spearmint leaves, and Jaffas: For decorating, bringing festive cheer and color.

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

Butter: You could use margarine if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Caster Sugar: Brown sugar can add a deeper flavor profile.
Self-raising Flour: Substitute with all-purpose flour combined with baking powder (1 tsp baking powder per 100g flour).

Timing

Preparing these delightful Christmas Cupcakes will take:

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average holiday dessert recipe!

How to Make Christmas Cupcakes

Ready to wow your friends and family with festive treats? Here’s how to create your Christmas Cupcakes!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a cupcake tray with festive liners.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, beat softened butter and caster sugar until fluffy. The mixture should appear pale and creamy. This step is crucial for fluffy cupcakes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Gently beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This ensures an even mixture and prevents curdling.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Fold in the self-raising flour and pinch of salt gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.

Step 5: Bake

Spoon the mix into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Let the cupcakes cool in the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing (optional)

In a bowl, cream together 185 g softened unsalted butter and 340 g icing sugar with 2 tbsp milk and 1 tsp vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Decorate

Once cooled, decorate your cupcakes with icing and top with festive M&Ms, spearmint leaves, and Jaffas for that holiday touch.

Nutritional Information

Each Christmas Cupcake contains approximately:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 20g

This makes them a delightful treat but remember to enjoy in moderation—especially during the festive season!

Healthier Alternatives for Christmas Cupcakes

Want a softer version of your Christmas Cupcakes? Consider these alternatives:

Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Coconut Sugar: A lower glycemic alternative to caster sugar helps in reducing the overall sugar content.
Greek Yogurt: Use it in place of butter in the icing for a healthier frosting option.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Christmas Cupcakes experience with these creative serving ideas:

Festive Platter: Arrange cupcakes on a colorful cake stand, surrounded by seasonal decorations.
Pair with Hot Beverages: Serve alongside spiced chai or hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
Gift Wrapping: Wrap in cellophane and give them as homemade gift treats—perfect for spreading holiday cheer!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Christmas Cupcakes turn out perfectly, avoid these typical pitfalls:

Overmixing Batter: This results in dense cupcakes; mix just until combined.
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven. An uncalibrated oven can lead to burnt or undercooked cupcakes.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting warm cupcakes can lead to slippery icing. Let them cool completely!

Storing Tips for Christmas Cupcakes

To enjoy your Christmas Cupcakes at their best:

Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you’ve used cream cheese frosting, keep them in the fridge for no more than 5 days.
Freezing: Place un-frosted cupcakes in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw and add icing before serving!

Conclusion

Creating delicious Christmas Cupcakes is a wonderful way to enhance your holiday celebrations. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll delight family and friends with festive flavors and colors. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this delightful recipe today! Don’t forget to share your baking adventures in the comments below or explore more delightful treats on our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my cupcakes more moist?

To ensure extra moisture, try adding a few tablespoons of sour cream or yogurt to your batter.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What’s the best way to decorate my cupcakes?

Consider using piping bags to create fun designs. Sprinkling festive decorations like edible glitter can also add a magical touch.

How far in advance can I make these cupcakes?

You can bake these cupcakes up to a week in advance and store them in airtight containers.

With these questions addressed, you’ll be well-prepared to take on your baking adventure! Happy baking and Merry Christmas!