Growing up, Moscow Mules were a staple in my family, thanks to my dad’s love for this classic cocktail. Today, I’m thrilled to share a unique twist on this favorite drink in the form of Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes. These light and fluffy treats capture the essence of the iconic cocktail but with a delightful dessert twist. While the traditional Moscow Mule includes vodka, these cupcakes are alcohol-free, making them perfect for all ages to enjoy.
The star of these cupcakes is the raspberry buttercream frosting that adds a burst of fruity flavor to each bite. Ginger beer, a key ingredient in the classic cocktail, gives these cupcakes a hint of spice and tang. Whether you’re a fan of Moscow Mules or simply looking for a creative dessert, these Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes are sure to impress with their refreshing and zesty taste.
Ingredients
For these Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients to create the perfect blend of flavors in both the cupcake base and the delicious Moscow Mule frosting.
Cupcake Base
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 egg whites, room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons ginger beer
- 2 tablespoons vodka
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup shortening
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 4 teaspoons raspberry extract
These ingredients will come together to create the perfect Moscow Mule cupcakes with a delightful raspberry twist in the frosting.
Equipment Needed
For preparing these delightful Moscow Mule cupcakes, you will need the following equipment:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cupcake pan
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
- Piping bag and decorating tip (optional)
- Toothpick or cake tester
- Rubber spatula
- Oven
With these essential tools in place, you are all set to embark on creating these flavorful and enticing Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes.
Prep and Pre-Cook Instructions
Preparing the Cupcake Batter
First, preheat the oven to 180C (350F) and line a muffin tin with paper bake cups.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Ensuring proper creaming will result in a tender cupcake texture.
Next, add sour cream and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, and mix until well combined. These ingredients will contribute to the cupcakes’ moistness and flavor.
Gradually incorporate the egg whites into the batter in two additions, making sure to blend well after each addition. Scraping down the sides of the bowl will help ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients. In another measuring cup, mix Bundaberg Ginger Beer and vodka. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the ginger beer mixture to the batter, ensuring each addition is well incorporated.
Fill the cupcake liners halfway with the prepared batter. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Pre-Cook Frosting Prep
Prepare the frosting by combining unsalted butter, shortening, powdered sugar, and raspberry extract. Whip the ingredients until light and fluffy to achieve a smooth and delicious frosting.
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the raspberry frosting using a piping bag and decorating tip for a professional finish.
By following these steps meticulously, you’ll create beautifully flavored Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes that are sure to impress.
Cooking Directions
Baking the Cupcakes
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Line twenty-four 2 1/2-inch muffin cups with paper bake cups.
- In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: white cake mix and ground ginger.
- In a small measuring cup, mix the ginger beer and vodka.
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the batter and mix until well combined.
- Pour in the ginger beer mixture and remaining dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
- Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about halfway.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs.
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter until fluffy.
- Add 3 cups of powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
- Incorporate vodka, lime zest, and lime juice, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the remaining cup of powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is fully combined.
- For a finishing touch, pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and garnish with lime zest and a sprig of fresh mint.
Assembly
To assemble the Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes, follow these steps for frosting and garnishing:
- Into a large bowl of your stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, add butter and beat for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Incorporate a pint of raspberries, reserving 12 for garnishing.
- Gradually add in powdered sugar and milk, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Transfer the frosting into a piping bag for easy application.
For garnishing:
- Pipe the frosting generously onto the cooled cupcakes.
- Top each cupcake with a fresh raspberry and a small lime wedge for a pop of color.
- Sprinkle some colorful sprinkles over the cupcakes for a fun and festive touch.
Serving and Storage
After creating these delicious Moscow Mule cupcakes, it’s important to know how to serve them for the best experience. To serve, place the cupcakes on a decorative platter or cake stand to showcase their colorful frosting. Add a festive touch by garnishing each cupcake with a slice of lime and a sprig of fresh mint.
When it comes to storing your cupcakes, it’s essential to keep them fresh and flavorful. Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, for longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they are covered well to prevent them from drying out.
For serving, allow the refrigerated cupcakes to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying them. This will help restore their texture and taste. If you have leftover cupcakes, you can even freeze them. Simply place the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Moscow Mule cupcakes are always fresh, delicious, and ready to delight your taste buds whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Tips for the Perfect Moscow Mule Cupcakes
To ensure your Moscow Mule cupcakes turn out perfect every time, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the vodka and ginger beer. Opt for premium vodka for an authentic Moscow Mule flavor.
- Proper Mixing: When preparing the cupcake batter, make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing. This will help maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Even Distribution: Fill the cupcake liners evenly with batter to ensure all cupcakes bake uniformly. This will prevent some cupcakes from being under or overcooked.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cupcakes.
- Frosting Technique: When frosting the cupcakes, consider using a piping bag for a professional and polished look. Experiment with different piping tips for decorative frosting designs.
- Garnish Creatively: Garnish each cupcake with a raspberry, lime wedge, and a sprinkle of colorful edible sprinkles to enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of flavor.
- Storage Tips: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Ensure they are properly thawed before serving for the best taste.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to craft Moscow Mule cupcakes that not only taste delicious but also look stunning for any occasion.
Conclusion
Creating Raspberry Moscow Mule Cupcakes is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a unique twist on a classic cocktail. By following the detailed recipe and tips provided, you can impress your guests with these flavorful treats. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, follow the mixing instructions carefully, and pay attention to the details like frosting and garnishing. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can elevate your baking skills and delight your friends and family with these Moscow Mule cupcakes. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these delightful treats that are sure to be a hit at any gathering.