Step into a world of creativity with these Sparkling Cider Cupcakes. This unique cupcake recipe combines the light, crisp flavor of sparkling cider with the richness of white chocolate, layered with a velvety smooth frosting. Perfect for special occasions or just because, these cupcakes are sure to impress.
This recipe calls for sparkling cider, which may not be a regular staple in your pantry. Sparkling cider is a non-alcoholic beverage made from freshly squeezed or pressed fruit, often apples. You can find it in the juice aisle of your local supermarket. Another ingredient that some might not have is Greek yogurt or sour cream, which adds a tangy flavor and moist texture to the cupcakes. Choose whichever one you prefer, but make sure you have it on hand before starting.
Ingredients for Sparkling Cider Cupcakes:
All purpose flour: This is the base for the cupcakes, giving them structure and body.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cupcakes.
Baking soda and baking powder: These are the leavening agents that allow the cupcakes to rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
Egg whites: Provide structure and lift to the cupcakes.
Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor.
Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Gives a tangy flavor and moist texture to the cupcakes.
Sparkling cider: Imparts a light, fruity flavor to the cupcakes.
White chocolate or chocolate chips: Adds a sweet, creamy component to the cupcakes.
Powdered sugar: Used in the frosting for sweetness and smooth texture.
One reader, Katusha Ervin says:
These sparkling cider cupcakes are a delight! The hint of cider adds a unique flavor, and the frosting is heavenly. The white chocolate topping is a lovely touch. I highly recommend this recipe for a special treat. It's a hit with everyone who tries it!
Techniques Required for Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl and whisk together. Add the softened butter, egg whites, vanilla, Greek yogurt, and sparkling cider. Mix on medium speed just until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
How to melt white chocolate: Place the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set it over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir the chocolate occasionally until it is completely melted and smooth.
How to make the frosting: Cream the butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Mix in the vanilla and sparkling cider until well combined.
How to store the cupcakes: Store the finished cupcakes in the fridge to keep them fresh.
How To Make Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
Cider cupcakes are an all-occasion dessert with a kick. The batter has yogurt & sparkling cider. The frosting is also spiked with it for some added flavor.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Cupcake:
- 1⅔cupsall purpose flour
- 1cupsugar
- ¼tspbaking soda
- 1tspbaking powder
- ⅛tspsalt
- ¾cupunsalted butter,room temperature
- 3egg whites
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ½cupplain greek yogurt,or sour cream
- ½cupsparkling cider,plus 2 tablespoons
- 4ozwhite chocolate chips,or chocolate chips
For Frosting:
- 1cupunsalted butter,room temperature
- 3cupspowdered sugar
- 1tspvanilla
- 4tbspsparkling cider
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, line standard cupcake pan with paper liners and set aside.
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In a large bowl whisk together dry ingredients-flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add softened butter, egg whites, vanilla, greek yogurt and sparkling cider and mix on medium speed just until smooth, but do not over mix.
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Fill cupcake liners maximum ⅔ full and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Cool completely.
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Melt white chocolate and spread with a spoon on top of each cupcakes. Place in the fridge to set while making frosting.
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Mix the butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar 1 cup at the time and mix until smooth.
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Mix in vanilla and sparkling cider and top the cupcakes.
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Store in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Calories: 555.90kcal
- Fat: 30.72g
- Saturated Fat: 19.27g
- Trans Fat: 1.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.18g
- Carbohydrates: 67.84g
- Fiber: 0.52g
- Sugar: 53.64g
- Protein: 4.24g
- Cholesterol: 74.75mg
- Sodium: 111.20mg
- Calcium: 67.84mg
- Potassium: 81.95mg
- Iron: 0.93mg
- Vitamin A: 227.28µg
- Vitamin C: 0.19mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
When melting the white chocolate, it's best to use a double boiler to prevent it from burning. If you don't have a double boiler, you can make one by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Make sure the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir the chocolate constantly until it's smooth and glossy. This will give your cupcakes a professional touch.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the cupcakes are baking, start preparing the frosting to save time.
Use pre-made frosting: If you're short on time, consider using store-bought frosting instead of making it from scratch.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time searching for tools and ingredients.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe and follow the instructions carefully to avoid mistakes that could cost you time.
Substitute Ingredients For Sparkling Cider Cupcakes Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: This substitution can be used for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a gluten-free alternative without compromising the texture of the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the cupcakes.
egg whites - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to egg whites and helps to keep the cupcakes moist.
plain greek yogurt or sour cream - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a hint of coconut flavor to the cupcakes.
sparkling cider - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can be used as a non-alcoholic alternative to sparkling cider, providing a similar apple flavor to the cupcakes.
white chocolate or chocolate chips - Substitute with vegan white chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips: This substitution can be used for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet, providing a suitable alternative for the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative for the frosting, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a less refined alternative to powdered sugar, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the frosting.
Presenting Your Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
Elevate the cupcake: Start by delicately placing the cupcake on a pristine, white porcelain plate. Ensure the cupcake is centered and positioned with precision.
Garnish with white chocolate: Drizzle a luscious white chocolate ganache over the top of the cupcake, allowing it to cascade down the sides in an elegant and artistic manner.
Add a touch of sparkle: Gently dust the cupcake with edible glitter to give it a subtle yet captivating shimmer, enhancing its visual appeal.
Present with a flourish: Place the cupcake on a bed of delicate, handcrafted sugar flowers to create a stunning and sophisticated presentation.
Accompany with a side of whipped cream: Serve the cupcake alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream, elegantly piped onto the plate to complement the flavors and add a touch of luxury to the presentation.
Enhance with edible flowers: Adorn the plate with a few carefully selected edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to add a pop of color and a touch of natural beauty to the presentation.
Serve on a mirrored platter: Present the cupcake on a sleek, mirrored platter to create a sense of opulence and sophistication, allowing the cupcake to be the focal point of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and cooking, used to bake and cook food by exposing it to dry heat.
- Cupcake pan: A specialized baking pan with individual molds for baking cupcakes.
- Paper liners: Used to line the cupcake pan to prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
- Large bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients.
- Spoon: Used for stirring, mixing, and spreading.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for various food preparation tasks such as chopping, blending, and pureeing.
- Mixing bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool used for scraping, spreading, and smoothing frosting.
- Refrigerator: Used for storing and chilling the cupcakes and frosting.
Storing and Freezing Your Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for sparkling cider cupcakes:
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cupcakes soggy.
- To store the cupcakes, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If you're layering the cupcakes, place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together. The cupcakes will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you want to freeze the cupcakes, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents. The cupcakes will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature on the counter. This will take about 1-2 hours. Do not unwrap the cupcakes until they have thawed completely to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
- If you want to freeze the cupcakes with the frosting already on them, place the frosted cupcakes on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm, about 2 hours. Then, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Thaw the cupcakes in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- If you have leftover sparkling cider, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Use it to make more cupcakes or enjoy it as a refreshing drink.
How To Reheat Leftover Cupcakes
To reheat leftover sparkling cider cupcakes, first let them come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them reheat more evenly and prevent them from drying out.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Loosely tent the cupcakes with aluminum foil to prevent the frosting from melting or burning. The foil will also help trap moisture, keeping the cupcakes soft and fluffy.
Bake the cupcakes for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. The exact time will depend on the size of your cupcakes and how cold they were to begin with.
Alternatively, you can use a microwave to reheat the cupcakes. Place one or two cupcakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on medium power for 10-15 seconds at a time, until they are warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the frosting to melt and the cupcakes to become tough.
If the frosting looks a bit soft or melted after reheating, you can pop the cupcakes in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help the frosting set up again.
For best results, consume the reheated sparkling cider cupcakes immediately. If you need to store them again, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Interesting Fact About Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
The sparkling cider cupcakes recipe is a delightful treat for special occasions. The addition of sparkling cider not only adds a unique flavor but also creates a light and fluffy texture in the cupcakes. The use of white chocolate as a topping adds a touch of elegance to the dessert. These cupcakes are a perfect choice for celebrations and gatherings, adding a touch of sophistication to any event.
Is Making Sparkling Cider Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sparkling cider cupcakes recipe is relatively high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a decent batch. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it budget-friendly. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering the use of simple ingredients and the delightful taste of the cupcakes.
Are Sparkling Cider Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The sparkling cider cupcakes recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in sugar, with 1 cup of sugar in the cupcake batter and 3-4 cups of powdered sugar in the frosting. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter (1¾ cups in total), which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
- White chocolate or chocolate chips are added to the cupcakes, which further increases the sugar and fat content.
- The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cupcake batter and the frosting. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates to add sweetness without relying solely on refined sugar.
- Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, applesauce, or mashed avocado. These substitutions can help reduce the saturated fat content while maintaining moisture and texture.
- Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. These options provide more fiber, nutrients, and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Omit the white chocolate or chocolate chips to reduce the overall sugar and fat content. If you still want to include them, opt for dark chocolate chips, which contain less sugar and offer some health benefits due to their higher cocoa content.
- Incorporate some healthy add-ins to the cupcake batter, such as grated zucchini, carrots, or finely chopped nuts. These ingredients can add moisture, texture, and nutrients to the cupcakes.
Editor's Opinion on Sparkling Cider Cupcakes
The sparkling cider cupcakes recipe is a delightful and innovative twist on traditional cupcakes. The use of sparkling cider adds a unique flavor and lightness to the cupcakes, while the white chocolate topping and sparkling cider frosting provide a luxurious touch. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious balance of sweetness and tanginess, making these cupcakes a perfect treat for special occasions or as a delightful dessert. The recipe's clear instructions and simple steps make it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, these cupcakes are a delightful and elegant addition to any dessert spread.
Why trust this Sparkling Cider Cupcakes Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its perfect balance of sparkling cider and white chocolate. The use of Greek yogurt ensures moist and tender cupcakes, while the addition of sparkling cider infuses a unique and refreshing flavor. The frosting, made with unsalted butter and sparkling cider, complements the cupcakes beautifully. Trust in the combination of quality ingredients and precise instructions to create a delectable treat that will surely impress.
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