As I rummaged through my baking supplies the other day, the vibrant colors of cherry juice and malt powder caught my eye, sparking an idea that felt like a sweet nostalgia. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes! A delightful homage to the classic milkshake, these cupcakes deliver a juicy cherry explosion beautifully topped with creamy frosting and a rich chocolate drizzle. Not only do they promise to bring smiles at any gathering, but they’re also a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for busy bakers. So, are you ready to dive into this cherry-topped adventure and bring a taste of summer to your kitchen?
Why Are These Cupcakes Irresistible?
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes delivers a vibrant cherry goodness that evokes sweet memories of summer treats.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll have freshly baked cupcakes in no time.
Perfectly Moist: Optional Greek yogurt or sour cream in the batter ensures an incredibly moist cupcake that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for parties, they combine nostalgia with whimsy, impressing both kids and adults alike.
Creative Toppings: Drizzle with chocolate sauce and garnish with maraschino cherries for a fun, delectable finish that makes these cupcakes stand out.
If you’re in the mood for something equally delightful, try our Matcha Cupcakes Deliciously for a different twist!
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcake Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; make sure to level it off for accuracy.
• Caster Sugar – Adds sweetness; granulated sugar can be a substitute but may require more mixing.
• Baking Powder – Essential for that light, fluffy rise.
• Fine Salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Unsalted Butter – Brings richness; use it softened for easy blending.
• Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients while adding moisture.
• Whole Milk – Contributes liquid and richness; almond milk is a great alternative!
• Cherry Juice – Infuses a delightful cherry flavor; go for canned cherries for the best results.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cupcakes moist; you can substitute half with melted coconut oil.
• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Adds moisture; plain yogurt works as a substitute if needed.
• Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste – Enhances flavor; always choose a high-quality option.
• Canned Cherries – Adds chewy cherry pieces for bursts of flavor.
• Malt Powder – Gives that unique malt flavor reminiscent of milkshakes.
For the Frosting and Toppings
• Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle on top to introduce a rich chocolate element.
• Maraschino Cherries – Sweet and decorative topping that adds a fun finish.
• Pink and Purple Food Gels – Brighten up your frosting for a whimsical touch.
• Cherry Brandy Essence – Intensifies the cherry flavor in the cupcakes.
These Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are an irresistible way to bring a taste of joy into your home baking. Enjoy whipping them up!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced or 180°C (356°F) for a conventional oven. While it heats up, line a cupcake tin with colorful liners to add a touch of fun. This is a crucial step in making your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes, ensuring they bake evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, caster sugar, and fine salt. This step helps aerate the flour and evenly distribute the leavening agent, setting the foundation for fluffy cupcakes. Keep whisking until the mixture is light and well blended, preparing your batter for the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter
Add the softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients and blend using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Mix until you reach a sandy texture, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to light and fluffy Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk, cherry juice, large eggs, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. With a whisk or fork, mix until smooth and uniformly blended, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated. This creamy mixture will infuse moisture and flavor into your cupcakes.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy and thick yet well incorporated. This crucial step will help maintain the light texture needed for the perfect Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
Step 6: Fold in Flavor Enhancers
Gently fold in the cherry brandy essence along with the pink and purple food gels for color, making sure everything is evenly distributed without over-mixing. The vibrant colors will give your cupcakes a delightful appearance, enhancing the fun of your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes and making them visually irresistible.
Step 7: Prepare the Cupcake Liners
Place four whole cherries at the bottom of each cupcake liner, ensuring they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Then, fill each liner with batter, making sure to leave about ¼ inch of space at the top. This will allow the cupcakes to rise perfectly without overflowing during baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Slide the cupcake tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Whip Up the Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, prepare your frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk, adding more liquid as needed until you achieve a fluffy consistency. Incorporate the desired food gels for color and a hint of cherry brandy essence to enhance the flavor.
Step 10: Frosting and Decorating
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each cupcake with your vibrant mixture. Be sure to make it fun and swirly! Drizzle chocolate sauce over the frosted cupcakes for an extra indulgent touch, and finish with a maraschino cherry on top for that classic milkshake look in your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container; this ensures it stays fresh without compromising texture. Additionally, the cupcakes can be baked a head of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cooled cupcakes and drizzle with chocolate sauce right before serving for that fresh, homemade taste. This way, you can relish the joy of baking without the stress, making your busy weeknights just a little sweeter!
Storage Tips for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes
Room Temperature: Keep the cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and moisture. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can dry them out.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the cupcakes, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Ensure they’re in a tightly sealed container to prevent absorbing other odors.
Freezer: Freeze cupcakes for up to 2 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overheat.
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity with these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes, perfect for customizing to suit your taste!
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Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious chocolaty contrast.
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Berry Delight: Swap the cherry juice with raspberry juice for a refreshing berry twist. These cupcakes will burst with a different kind of fruity flavor that’s just as tempting!
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and a nutty aftertaste.
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and dairy-free yogurt instead of regular milk and Greek yogurt to easily accommodate lactose intolerance.
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Extravagant Frosting: Add cream cheese to the frosting mixture for a tangy yet sweet frosting that complements the fruity cupcakes beautifully.
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Flavored Extracts: Use almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor profile that surprises your taste buds.
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Lower Sugar: Replace caster sugar with a sugar substitute to reduce sweetness for a healthier option without sacrificing the cupcake’s fluffy texture.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a fusion of flavors? These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a scoop of our Matcha Cupcakes Deliciously. Let your imagination run wild in the kitchen!
What to Serve with Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance these charming cupcakes’ flavors.
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Velvety Whipped Cream: Adds a rich and airy texture, complementing the sweet cherry flavor perfectly. A dollop on top welcomes a touch of indulgence.
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Fresh Cherries: Garnish with whole or sliced fresh cherries for a burst of juicy flavor, enhancing the overall cherry theme. Their natural sweetness pairs seamlessly with the cupcakes.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Serve alongside a chocolate milkshake to mirror the milkshake inspiration behind the cupcakes, creating a nostalgic combo that delights.
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Light Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings freshness to balance out the sweetness. The zing from citrus or tart berries pairs wonderfully with the rich cupcakes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melted slightly over the warm cupcake provides a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.
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Almond Biscotti: For a delightful crunch, serve almond biscotti on the side. They add a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy cupcakes.
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Cherry Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle some cherry syrup over the cupcakes before serving for an added sweet kick that enhances their cherry malt goodness.
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Sparkling Water: Refresh with bubbly sparkling water. A lemon wedge adds brightness, making it a whimsical drink to sip while enjoying your dessert.
Expert Tips for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Stir just until you don’t see dry flour; small lumps are okay.
• Use Canned Cherries: For the best flavor, use cherries from a can, but ensure they’re well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
• Cool Completely: Letting the cupcakes cool completely before frosting is key! It prevents melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Swap Ingredients Wisely: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, plain yogurt can substitute easily without compromising the moisture of your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.
• Make it Fun: Don’t hesitate to experiment with vibrant food colors in your frosting to create an eye-catching look that kids will love!
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes, I recommend using canned cherries. They offer a sweet and juicy burst that enhances the cupcake’s cherry flavor. Make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which can affect the texture.
How should I store leftovers of the cupcakes?
Very! Store your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them even longer, you can refrigerate them, and they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just be sure they’re sealed tightly to keep other odors out!
Can I freeze the cupcakes for later use?
Certainly! To freeze your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my cupcakes come out dense?
Great question! If your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes turn out dense, it’s typically due to overmixing the batter. Be mindful to mix only until no dry ingredients remain visible; small lumps are perfect! Additionally, make sure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to flat cupcakes.
Are these cupcakes suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! To accommodate dietary restrictions, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The recipe can be modified using almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version. Always check for any specific allergies related to ingredients like eggs and cherries before serving, especially if they are for guests.
Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes: Soft, Fluffy, Cherry Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced or 180°C (356°F) for conventional. Line a cupcake tin with colorful liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, caster sugar, and fine salt.
- Add the softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients and blend until sandy texture, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk, cherry juice, eggs, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined; do not overmix.
- Fold in the cherry brandy essence and pink/purple food gels, ensuring even distribution.
- Place four whole cherries at the bottom of each cupcake liner, then fill with batter, leaving about 1/4 inch space.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the tin briefly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting by beating together butter, powdered sugar, and milk until fluffy; add food gels and cherry brandy essence for flavor.
- Frost each cupcake generously, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and top with a maraschino cherry.
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