Festive Celebration Cupcakes with Holiday Sprinkles
These delightful Festive Celebration Cupcakes are the perfect sweet treat for any holiday gathering! Light and fluffy vanilla cupcakes are topped with a creamy buttercream frosting and adorned with vibrant holiday sprinkles. They’re not just a feast for the taste buds, but also a visual delight that adds a touch of cheer to any festive occasion. These cupcakes are ideal for Christmas parties, New Year’s celebrations, or any joyful gathering where you want to spread some sweetness.
Each bite offers a balance of sweet vanilla flavor with a hint of buttery richness, complemented by the crunch of colorful sprinkles. The texture is soft and tender, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Skill Level: Beginner
Serving Information
- Yields: 12 cupcakes
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with hot cocoa or coffee, and feel free to add extra festive decorations like edible glitter or candy canes for a fun twist!
Ingredients List
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose Flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons Baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Holiday Sprinkles: as desired
Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs.
Prep Ahead: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best results.
Equipment List
- Mixing bowls (1 large and 1 medium)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cupcake pan (12-cup)
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
- Piping bag or ziplock bag (optional, for frosting)
Note: If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer will work just as well!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with a hand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing!
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cupcakes: Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Make the Buttercream Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add heavy cream and vanilla, then beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Transfer the buttercream to a piping bag or use a spatula to frost each cupcake generously. Top with holiday sprinkles.
Technique Tips and Troubleshooting
- Mixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
- Frosting Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick, add a splash more cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cupcakes while they bake. If they start to brown too much, check them a minute or two earlier than the suggested time.
Plating and Presentation
To serve, arrange the cupcakes on a festive platter. You can add a sprig of fresh mint or a small candy cane on top of each cupcake for an extra holiday touch. A light dusting of edible glitter can also add sparkle!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Variations and Customizations
- Add ½ cup (90 g) of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added flavor and texture.
- Try different flavors of extracts, such as almond or peppermint, for a unique twist on the frosting.
- For a festive surprise, fill the cupcakes with jam or chocolate ganache before frosting.
Notes on Ingredients and Equipment
Using room-temperature ingredients helps achieve a better rise and fluffier texture in your cupcakes. If you need to soften butter quickly, you can cut it into small pieces and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Final Touches and Personal Notes
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as I’ve been making these cupcakes with my family for years during the holiday season. They always bring smiles and joy to the table! I encourage you to experiment with flavors and decorations to make this recipe your own. Happy baking!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments! I’d love to hear your tips and tweaks!
