If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday treat that’s both festive and fuss-free, these Easy Eggnog Cupcakes will quickly earn a spot at the top of your baking list. Imagine the rich, creamy flavors of classic eggnog folded into a soft, fluffy cupcake and crowned with a dreamy swirl of eggnog-infused frosting. With just a few pantry staples and a splash of seasonal spirit, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something truly magical. Whether you’re hosting a party, gifting homemade goodies, or just treating yourself, these cupcakes will bring a smile to every face at the table.

Easy Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create something so memorable! Each element in these Easy Eggnog Cupcakes plays an important role, from the cozy spices to the creamy eggnog, ensuring every bite is full of holiday cheer.

Yellow Cake Mix: The ultimate shortcut for tender, consistent cupcakes every time—no measuring flour or leaveners needed!
Eggnog: Adds luxurious richness and nostalgic flavor to both the cake and the frosting—use your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.
Water: Keeps the cupcakes light and moist without overpowering the other flavors.
Vegetable Oil: Ensures a soft, tender crumb and helps the cupcakes stay fresh.
Large Eggs: Bind everything together and give the cupcakes a bit of structure and richness.
Ground Nutmeg: Classic in eggnog—this spice brings warmth and that unmistakable holiday aroma.
Ground Cinnamon: Adds a gentle, sweet spice that pairs perfectly with nutmeg and eggnog.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the cupcake’s sweetness.
Unsalted Butter (for frosting): The base for a creamy, luscious frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting, giving it that dreamy, pillowy texture.

How to Make Easy Eggnog Cupcakes

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with festive paper liners. This not only makes for easy cleanup, but also gives your Easy Eggnog Cupcakes that classic bakery look right from the get-go.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggnog, water, vegetable oil, eggs, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat everything together—first on low speed for 30 seconds to gently incorporate, then on medium for 2 minutes until the batter is silky-smooth and slightly thickened. You’ll see and smell the holiday magic come together!

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This ensures you get perfectly domed cupcakes every time. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely—patience is key for flawless frosting later!

Step 4: Make the Eggnog Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, whip up your decadent frosting. In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then pour in the eggnog, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is creamy, smooth, and irresistible—you’ll want to sneak a taste!

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, spread or pipe the frosting generously on top. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with a little extra nutmeg or even a dash of cinnamon. If you’re feeling extra festive, top with a cinnamon stick or a few sugared cranberries—presentation is half the fun with these Easy Eggnog Cupcakes!

How to Serve Easy Eggnog Cupcakes

Garnishes

For a showstopping finish, dust the tops with freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon, or add a mini cinnamon stick for a whimsical holiday vibe. Sugared cranberries or a drizzle of caramel sauce make these Easy Eggnog Cupcakes look irresistibly festive and ready for your holiday table or dessert buffet.

Side Dishes

Pair your cupcakes with a mug of hot cocoa, steamy coffee, or of course, a glass of chilled eggnog. If you’re serving at a party, a platter of fresh fruit or a simple vanilla ice cream will balance the richness and add color to your spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand for a striking centerpiece, or nestle each one in a decorative cupcake wrapper. For gifting, tuck a few into a festive box, tie with ribbon, and include a handwritten tag—these Easy Eggnog Cupcakes make the most delightful homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is especially warm, you can refrigerate them to keep the frosting firm and flavors bright.

Freezing

To freeze, place unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving. You can also freeze frosted cupcakes, but be sure to let them thaw gently to preserve the frosting’s texture.

Reheating

If you’ve stored your cupcakes in the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the cake and frosting return to their soft, fluffy best—no one likes a cold cupcake!

FAQs

Can I use homemade eggnog for Easy Eggnog Cupcakes?

Absolutely! Homemade eggnog works beautifully and will give your cupcakes a truly personal touch. Just make sure it’s well chilled and has a similar consistency to store-bought for best results.

Do these cupcakes need to be refrigerated?

If your kitchen is warm or humid, it’s a good idea to refrigerate the frosted cupcakes to keep the frosting from melting. Otherwise, they’re fine at room temperature for a couple of days.

Can I make Easy Eggnog Cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance and store them (unfrosted) in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the freshest, prettiest results.

What can I use if I don’t have eggnog?

If you’re in a pinch, try substituting half-and-half or whole milk with a splash of vanilla and a pinch of nutmeg. You’ll get a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.

Are Easy Eggnog Cupcakes suitable for kids?

Definitely! These cupcakes are alcohol-free and perfect for all ages. If you’d like an adults-only twist, you can add a bit of spiced rum to the batter or frosting for a grown-up treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the cozy, nostalgic flavor of Easy Eggnog Cupcakes to bring everyone together during the holidays. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is a breeze and guaranteed to spread a little extra cheer. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite festive playlist, and get ready to make some delicious memories—one bite at a time!

Easy Eggnog Cupcakes Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Easy Eggnog Cupcakes are a festive and flavorful treat perfect for the holiday season. Moist yellow cake infused with classic eggnog spices is topped with a creamy eggnog frosting, making for a delightful dessert that captures the spirit of Christmas effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale

Cupcakes

1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup eggnog
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup eggnog
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup eggnog, 1/2 cup water, vegetable oil, eggs, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Fill the Cupcake Liners: Evenly distribute the batter among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without overflow.
Bake: Place the filled muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean when ready.
Cool the Cupcakes: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, eggnog, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract, beating on medium-high speed until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to frost them generously. Optionally, sprinkle with extra ground nutmeg or garnish with festive touches like cinnamon sticks or sugared cranberries.
Serve and Store: Serve the cupcakes fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use full-fat eggnog instead of reduced-fat versions.
Garnish the frosted cupcakes with cinnamon sticks or sugared cranberries for a decorative, festive touch.
Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
If desired, slightly toast the ground nutmeg before adding for an intensified spice flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American