As I stood in my kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I was struck by a wave of nostalgia. The scent of cherries always brings back memories of summertime treats, and that’s exactly what inspired me to create these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes. They blend the delightful sweetness of fresh cherry flavor with the comforting essence of a classic milkshake, making them an ideal choice for any gathering. Not only are they a visually stunning addition to your dessert table, but their fluffy texture and creamy frosting will leave your friends and family begging for seconds. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up! Are you ready to indulge in a cupcake adventure that will take you straight back to those carefree summer days?
Why are these cupcakes a must-try?
Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite of these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes is like a hug from your childhood, combining sweet cherry notes with creamy malt undertones.
Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re not an expert baker; these cupcakes come together effortlessly, ensuring a fun and stress-free baking experience.
Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant frosting and cherry topping make them an eye-catching centerpiece at any event or gathering.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up by substituting cherry juice with your favorite berry juice, creating delightful flavor variations to suit every palate.
Quick to Bake: With a baking time of just 20-25 minutes, you’ll have these scrumptious treats ready before you know it – perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a birthday party, summer barbecue, or just a cozy night in, these cupcakes are sure to impress and delight everyone at the table! For more fun dessert ideas, check out my Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes or get inspired with Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes.
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcake Ingredients
For the Cupcake Base
- All-purpose flour – Gives the structure to the cupcakes; consider using cake flour for a lighter texture.
- Caster sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb; granulated sugar works too if needed.
- Baking powder – This leavening agent helps the cupcakes rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Fine salt – Enhances sweetness; kosher salt can be used, just adjust the amount accordingly.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; margarine or vegan butter can be a suitable substitute.
- Large eggs – Binds ingredients and aids rising; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
- Whole milk – Provides moisture; non-dairy milk is a great alternative for lactose-free or vegan diets.
- Cherry juice – Infuses flavor and moisture into the cupcakes; you can replace it with any fruit juice or omit, adjusting the milk as needed.
- Vegetable oil – Contributes moisture; melted coconut oil can be used instead.
- Greek yogurt/sour cream – Ensures moistness and richness; opt for non-dairy yogurt to keep it vegan.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; vanilla bean paste can deepen the flavor even further.
- Canned cherries – Adds delightful fruit chunks; fresh cherries can be a fantastic swap if in season.
For the Frosting
- Buttercream – The base for your frosting; ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Food gel coloring – Adds visual appeal to your frosting; you can choose to omit it for a more natural look.
- Cherry brandy essence – Amplifies cherry flavor; almond extract can serve as a substitute or be skipped entirely.
For the Topping
- Chocolate sauce – Ideal for drizzling, adding a rich flavor; highly recommended for an indulgent touch.
- Maraschino cherries – Perfect as a decorative topping; fresh cherries can also add a more natural option.
- Malt powder – Gives that nostalgic malt flavor reminiscent of milkshakes; instant malted milk powder works as a substitute too.
The flavorful blend of these ingredients makes these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes an unforgettable dessert. Get ready to delight your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced or 180°C (356°F) for a conventional model. While the oven warms up, line a cupcake tin with lovely cupcake liners. This setup will ensure that your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes have the perfect environment to bake evenly and rise beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a stand mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, caster sugar, and fine salt. Mix these dry ingredients on a low speed until well incorporated, creating a fluffy base for your cupcakes. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise, as this is the foundation of your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
Step 3: Add Butter
Add the softened unsalted butter to your dry mixture. Mix on medium speed until the mixture resembles fine sand, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step introduces richness and moisture to your cupcakes. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is uniformly blended and crumbly.
Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate jug, whisk together the large egg, whole milk, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, cherry juice, and vanilla extract. This creamy mixture needs to be smooth and homogeneous. The wet ingredients will ensure the Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are moist and flavorful, so take a moment to express the joy of cooking as you whisk!
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to preserve the fluffy texture of your cupcakes. You should see the ingredients pulling together, creating a luscious batter that promises to deliver delicious Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
Step 6: Fold in the Finishing Touches
Gently fold in the cherry brandy essence and a few drops of food gel coloring into the batter. This addition will enhance the flavor and add enticing visual appeal to your cupcakes. Mix carefully to keep as much air in the batter as possible, ensuring light, airy cupcakes.
Step 7: Prepare the Cupcake Liners
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each cupcake liner with batter, aiming to fill them about two-thirds full. Then, place four cherries into the center of each cupcake batter. This fruit addition will create delightful bursts of flavor in your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes when baked.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cupcakes should rise beautifully and turn a golden-brown color. This is the moment where sweet anticipation fills your kitchen as the aroma of cherry and cake fills the air.
Step 9: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; allowing your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes to cool will ensure that your frosting doesn’t melt when applied.
Step 10: Make the Frosting
To create the frosting, beat together buttercream with food dyes and cherry brandy essence in a bowl until creamy and fluffy. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. The frosting should be smooth and vibrant, ready to elevate your cupcakes to the next level of indulgence!
Step 11: Frost and Decorate
Frost the cooled cupcakes using an open star piping tip, adding generous swirls of your vibrant frosting. Drizzle each cupcake with chocolate sauce, and top them off with a maraschino cherry for that delightful, eye-catching finish. This final step transforms your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes into a visually stunning treat.
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; these delicious ideas will elevate your baking experience!
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Berry Twist: Swap cherry juice for raspberry or strawberry juice for a delightful berry burst.
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Caramel Drizzle: Replace chocolate sauce with luscious caramel for a sweet and salty combination that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
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Vegan-Friendly: Use almond milk and plant-based butter for a vegan cupcake that everyone can love.
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Fruity Flavor: Substitute canned cherries with fresh ones during the season for a fresher taste and texture that adds an extra burst of flavor.
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Nutty Note: Add chopped almonds or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the cupcake’s softness. This little twist brings in different textures!
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Malt-Free Version: Omit malt powder entirely if you prefer; these cupcakes are still scrumptious without it.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for cozy warmth that enhances the sweet profile of the cherries.
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Chocolate Cherry: Mix chocolate chips into the batter for an extra rich chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with cherries. For more chocolate indulgence, consider trying the Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes that everyone will adore!
Each of these variations will create a unique twist on the classic Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcake, ensuring there’s something delightful for everyone at your table!
What to Serve with Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes?
Let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey as you create a full meal wonderfully paired with these enchanting cupcakes.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, velvety texture of vanilla ice cream complements the sweet cherry flavors while enhancing the overall dessert experience. A scoop alongside each cupcake makes for a nostalgic treat reminiscent of classic milkshakes.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes. The tanginess of berries and citrus cuts through the richness, making each bite delightful.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Desirable and stunning, these rich strawberries harmonize with the cherry and malt flavors, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert display. Perfect for special occasions or any time you want to impress!
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Sweet Iced Tea: A refreshing pitcher of sweet iced tea balances the rich flavors of the cupcake, making it a soothing drink to sip alongside your dessert. Opt for a hint of lemon to elevate the pairing further.
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Creamy Whipped Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and elegance on top of your cupcakes, enhancing their festive presentation while adding a rich, creamy texture. Just the right touch for your indulgence!
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Coffee or Mocha: The depth of coffee or chocolatey mocha balances the sweet and fruity notes of the cupcakes, making it the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a cozy pairing that warms the heart on a chilly day.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Dive deeper into nostalgia with a creamy chocolate milkshake, creating a decadent dessert experience. It’s a dreamy combination that echoes the flavors of the cupcakes while making for a fun treat alongside your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the dry and wet ingredients separately and storing them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the ingredients and proceed with filling the liners and adding the cherries, ensuring a fresh burst of flavor in every bite. The frosted cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, retaining their delightful moisture and richness. To maintain their quality, avoid frosting them until you’re ready to serve; this way, they stay just as delicious and visually appealing as the day they were made!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes
Airtight Container: Store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them fresh and moist, allowing you to enjoy their delightful cherry flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cupcakes for up to a week. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.
Reheating: If you want to enjoy a warm cupcake, microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
Expert Tips for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to blend seamlessly, resulting in a fluffy texture for your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
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Mix with Care: Avoid over-mixing once the wet ingredients are added. Gently fold until just combined to keep the cupcakes light and airy.
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Uniform Size: Use an ice cream scoop to portion the batter evenly into cupcake liners. This ensures consistent baking and an appealing presentation.
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Chill Out: Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents hot cupcakes from melting your creamy frosting, allowing for beautiful swirls.
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Flexible Flavor: Don’t hesitate to swap cherry juice with other fruit juices for a twist; raspberry or strawberry juices can create delicious alternatives while still maintaining the fun essence of cupcakes.
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherries for the cupcakes?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries, look for bright, vibrant colors with a firm texture and a shiny surface. Avoid cherries with dark spots all over or those that feel soft to the touch, as they can indicate overripeness or bruising. Fresh cherries will provide the best flavor and texture for your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
How should I store leftover cupcakes?
You can easily store your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week, but ensure they are well covered to prevent drying out. Your delicious cupcakes will stay moist and sweet, ready for your next indulgence!
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Definitely! To freeze your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes, start by leaving them unfrosted. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When you’re craving a sweet treat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and frost them before serving. Enjoy the delightful freshness!
What if my cupcakes are too dry?
Oh no! If your cupcakes come out a bit dry, it could be from overmixing during preparation or baking too long. To salvage them, drizzle a simple syrup made from equal parts water and sugar over the cooled cupcakes, letting them soak in the moisture. For next time, ensure you mix gently after adding wet ingredients and keep an eye on the oven closely to avoid overbaking.
Are these cupcakes suitable for those with allergies?
Be mindful! The Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes contain common allergens like eggs and dairy. For a nut allergy, double-check your ingredients, especially in the yogurt and any cooking products. If you’re preparing for someone with these sensitivities, consider using flax eggs for binding, and opt for non-dairy milk and yogurt to create a delightful vegan version without compromising on flavor. Always communicate with your guests about ingredient choices to ensure a safe and delicious treat for everyone.
Irresistible Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes to Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced or 180°C (356°F) for a conventional model and line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, caster sugar, and fine salt, mixing on low speed until well incorporated.
- Add the softened unsalted butter to your dry mixture and mix on medium speed until it resembles fine sand.
- In a separate jug, whisk together the large egg, whole milk, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, cherry juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cherry brandy essence and a few drops of food gel coloring.
- Fill each cupcake liner with batter about two-thirds full and place four cherries into the center of each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To create the frosting, beat together buttercream with food dyes and cherry brandy essence until creamy and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and top with a maraschino cherry.
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