Eggnog Cupcakes with Whipped Eggnog Buttercream

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup eggnog
• For the frosting:
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup eggnog
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two batches, alternating with the eggnog. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 of the way full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
7. To make the frosting, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg and mix until combined.
8. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the buttercream and sprinkle with ground nutmeg, if desired.

Interesting Facts

• Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink made with eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.
• Eggnog cupcakes are a great way to enjoy the flavor of eggnog without having to drink it!
• Eggnog cupcakes are often topped with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few drops of rum extract.