Why Champagne Cupcakes
In the world of desserts, there exists a confection so refined, so delightfully effervescent, that it can only be described as a celebration in a few bites; the champagne cupcake. This exquisite treat combines the elegance of champagne with the comforting sweetness of a delicate cupcake, making it the perfect choice for any wedding, all New Year’s Eve parties, and any occasion that calls for a touch of sparkling luxury.
I found this recipe years ago while traveling in France in a tatty old recipe book in a second-hand shop, I was not convinced it would work. I got home and tried it. I was very wrong, my little moist cupcakes were delicious. With a few modifications over the years below is the recipe I use for all those special celebrations.
Champagne Cupcakes
Equipment
- 2 Mixing Bowls
- 2 Metal Spoons
- 1 Measuring Cups
- 1 Teaspoon Measures
- 1 12 x Cupcake Pan
- 1 Packet Cupcake Wrappers or Patti Pans
- 1 Metal or Wood Skewer
- 1 Pipping Bag and Nozzles Optional
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ Cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp bakibg powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp sea salt flakes or regular sea salt
- ⅓ Cup butter softened
- 1 Cup granular raw sugar
- 1 Large free range eggs room temp.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ Cup Sour Cream
- ½ Cup demi-sec champagne choose your favorite
Luscious Champagne Frosting
- 1 Cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 Cups powdered sugar
- ¼ Cup demi-sec champagne
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions
For the Champagne Cupcake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Gently fold in the champagne.
- Fill the cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool before frosting.
For the Champagne Frosting
- Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low until combined.
- Add champagne, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Increase the speed to high and beat until light and fluffy.
Decorating Your Cupcakes
- Edible Gold Leaf: For a truly luxurious touch, adorn your cupcakes with edible gold leaf.
- Champagne Soaking Syrup: Brush your cupcakes with a champagne syrup before frosting for an extra moist cake with a champagne kick.
- Decorative Toppers: Use champagne-themed toppers, like mini champagne bottles or glasses, to add a festive touch.
Pairing Champagne with Cupcakes
The choice of champagne can transform the flavor profile of your cupcakes, from the crisp and dry notes of a Brut to the sweet and fruity essence of a Demi-Sec.
Here’s a guide to pairing
Brut: The most common style, with a dry, crisp flavor. Perfect for classic champagne cupcakes, complementing the sweetness of the cake and frosting.
Rosé: Offers a fruity and floral note. Pair with strawberry or raspberry champagne cupcakes for a berry-infused delight.
Demi-Sec: Sweeter than Brut, it’s ideal for dessert cupcakes. Try with peach or apricot flavors for a sweet, sumptuous treat.
Blanc de Blancs: Made from white grapes, it’s light and elegant. Pair with lemon or white chocolate cupcakes for a delicate flavor.
Blanc de Noirs: Made from red grapes, offering depth and intensity. Ideal for pairing with dark chocolate or cherry cupcakes.
Beyond the Cupcake
Champagne cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are an experience. To elevate this experience, consider –
Edible Gold Leaf: For a truly luxurious touch, adorn your cupcakes with edible gold leaf.
Champagne Soaking Syrup: Brush your cupcakes with champagne syrup before frosting for an extra moist cake with a champagne kick.
Decorative Toppers: Use champagne-themed toppers, like mini champagne bottles or glasses, to add a festive touch.
In crafting champagne cupcakes, you’re not just baking; you’re weaving together the artistry of patisserie with the celebration of life’s most joyful moments. Yes, this may sound a little pretentious, but when it comes to champagne, why not?
Each bite is a reminder of the beauty in the blend of flavors, the balance between sweet and sophisticated, and the potential to turn any day into a celebration. So, raise your cupcake—a toast to sweet elegance and the endless possibilities of champagne-infused delights.
