Best White Russian Cupcakes: Quick Cocktail-Inspired Dessert

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 19, 2025

Imagine biting into a cupcake that combines the indulgence of dessert with the sophisticated flavors of your favorite cocktail. White Russian Cupcakes are a decadent treat inspired by the classic drink made with vodka, Kahlúa, and cream. These cupcakes are rich, moist, and topped with a fluffy Kahlúa buttercream frosting that’s sure to be the star of any gathering. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will impress every guest with its bold flavor and elegant presentation.

Why You’ll Love White Russian Cupcakes

Boozy and Fun: With hints of vodka and coffee liqueur, these cupcakes are perfect for adults who love dessert with a twist.
Easy to Make: Using a cake mix as the base, this recipe takes the guesswork out of baking.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cupcakes are visually stunning and packed with flavor, making them perfect for special occasions.
Customizable: You can adjust the alcohol content, switch up the toppings, or even make a non-alcoholic version.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cupcake Ingredients

1/2 cup vodka
2 tablespoons instant espresso
1/2 cup water
1 (15.25-ounce) box Duncan Hines white cake mix
3 large egg whites
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

3 cups (345 g) confectioners’ sugar
1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/3 cup Kahlúa
3 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Arrange the racks in the upper and lower thirds of your oven. Preheat it to 350°F.
Line 22 muffin cups in two 12-cup muffin tins with baking liners.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vodka, instant espresso, and 1/2 cup water.
Add the cake mix, egg whites, and vegetable oil to the bowl. Whisk vigorously for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Fill the Cups

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. Be careful not to overfill, as the batter will rise during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

Bake the cupcakes for 18–20 minutes, rotating the tins top to bottom halfway through baking.
Use a toothpick to check for doneness; the cupcakes are ready when the toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Kahlúa Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Prep the Confectioners’ Sugar

In a large bowl, gently whisk the confectioners’ sugar to break up any clumps.

Step 2: Beat the Butter

In the large bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Sugar

Add the confectioners’ sugar in two batches, beating on low speed after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients

Add the Kahlúa, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and kosher salt to the butter mixture.
Beat on medium-high speed for 3–4 minutes until the frosting is fluffy, smooth, and fully combined.

3. Assemble the Cupcakes

Step 1: Transfer the Frosting

Scoop the frosting into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.

Step 2: Frost the Cupcakes

Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes in a swirl pattern, starting from the outer edge and working your way to the center.

Step 3: Add Garnishes

Sprinkle the frosted cupcakes with chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance (optional).

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cupcake (Approx.)
Calories	330
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	2g
Sugar	28g
Sodium	250mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Tips for Perfect White Russian Cupcakes

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Opt for good-quality vodka and Kahlúa for the best flavor. Since these ingredients are central to the recipe, their quality will shine through in the finished cupcakes.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Whisk just until the ingredients are combined and smooth.

3. Let Cupcakes Cool Completely

Always let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting them. Warm cupcakes will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.

4. Customize the Garnish

If you don’t have chocolate shavings, try topping the cupcakes with espresso powder, cocoa powder, or chocolate sprinkles.

5. Make Ahead for Convenience

You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Frost them on the day of serving for maximum freshness.

Creative Ways to Serve White Russian Cupcakes

Cocktail Pairing: Serve these cupcakes alongside actual White Russian cocktails for a themed dessert experience.
Birthday Treat: These cupcakes make a unique and fun adult birthday dessert.
Holiday Desserts: Add them to your holiday spread for a festive, boozy treat.
Coffee Lover’s Delight: Pair them with an espresso martini or a cup of strong coffee.

FAQs About White Russian Cupcakes

1. Can I make these cupcakes without alcohol?

Yes! Replace the vodka with water and the Kahlúa with coffee or coffee-flavored syrup for a non-alcoholic version.

2. Can I freeze the cupcakes?

You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Frost them after thawing.

3. What can I use instead of Kahlúa?

Any coffee-flavored liqueur will work as a substitute for Kahlúa. You can also use coffee concentrate for a non-alcoholic alternative.

4. How do I store the cupcakes?

Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

5. Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! While a white cake mix works best for this recipe, you can experiment with yellow or vanilla cake mixes for a slightly different flavor.

6. How do I make the frosting thicker?

If the frosting is too thin, add more confectioners’ sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Why You Should Try White Russian Cupcakes

White Russian Cupcakes are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Combining the bold flavors of vodka and coffee liqueur with a moist cake and creamy buttercream frosting, these cupcakes are a sophisticated treat that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, these boozy cupcakes are guaranteed to be a hit.

Call to Action

Ready to impress your guests with these delicious, boozy cupcakes? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and whip up a batch of White Russian Cupcakes today! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time.

Merry