Baileys Christmas Day Cupcakes

Here’s a delightful recipe for Baileys Christmas Day Cupcakes, combining the rich flavor of Baileys Irish Cream with the festive cheer of Christmas. These cupcakes are perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to your holiday celebrations!

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream (adds extra moisture)

For the Baileys Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (depending on the desired consistency)
• 3 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

• Edible gold flakes or sprinkles (optional)
• Mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Fresh cranberries or holly leaves (optional for extra festive touch)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cupcakes:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, combine the Baileys Irish Cream, milk, and sour cream. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Baileys Buttercream Frosting:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, and beat well after each addition.
• Add the Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy, adjusting the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if necessary.

3. Frost the Cupcakes:

• Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag fitted with your preferred tip (like a star tip) to pipe the Baileys buttercream frosting onto each cupcake.
• For a fun and festive touch, top with edible gold flakes, mini chocolate chips, fresh cranberries, or holly leaves.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

• These Baileys Christmas Day Cupcakes are perfect for a holiday party, Christmas dinner, or as a treat to share with friends and family. Their rich flavor and festive decoration will be a hit at any celebration!

These cupcakes are a deliciously boozy and festive treat to brighten your holiday season!