Decadent Kahlua coffee cupcakes that will make your day!

As a barista, I know a thing or two about coffee. It can be brewed, poured, and mixed in so many ways that there is always something new to explore. And when it comes to pairing coffee with desserts, the possibilities are endless.

That’s why I’m excited to share this Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes recipe with you. This recipe marries the rich and bold flavor of coffee with the smooth and sweet taste of Kahlua liqueur. The result is a delectable treat perfect for satisfying your morning pastry craving or impressing friends at an evening gathering.

Coffee-flavored cupcakes have always been a favorite, but adding Kahlua gives them that extra oomph that takes them to the next level. These cupcakes are not just your average cupcake; they’re moist, decadent, and perfectly balanced in flavor.

The recipe is straightforward, and if you’re a baker at any level, you’ll be able to follow these instructions effortlessly. Even if you’re not a professional barista like me, I encourage you to try this recipe at home and find out why Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes deserve a spot on your dessert menu. Get your apron on and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes
Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes

If you’re a coffee lover or just enjoy indulging in a scrumptious dessert, this Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes recipe is perfect for you! Trust me, it’s like savoring a piece of dream wrapped in rich chocolate and creamy buttercream.

First of all, who doesn’t love cupcakes? They’re the ultimate indulgent treat that can brighten anyone’s day. These Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes have a twist that is sure to impress coffee lovers, and the sweet aroma of these cupcakes is enough to get your mouth watering.

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit any occasion. Be it a girl’s night in or a fancy dinner party, these cupcakes can be dressed up or down according to preference.

Not only do these cupcakes taste heavenly but they are also relatively easy to prepare with simple ingredients such as sour cream, eggs, baking soda, and chocolate chips. The flavorful Kahlua and brewed coffee add an extra dimension that takes the cupcakes to another level of deliciousness.

Lastly, the creamy Kahlua buttercream frosting complements the cupcakes beautifully and is sure to leave you with feelings of satisfaction long after you’ve finished devouring them.

In summary, these Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes are irresistible – they’re moist, rich, flavorful,instant mood boosters and are incredibly easy to make. So why not whip up a batch today?

Ingredient List

 Decadent Kahlua-infused cupcakes to indulge the coffee and dessert lover in you!
Decadent Kahlua-infused cupcakes to indulge the coffee and dessert lover in you!

Below is a list of ingredients you will need to make these delectable Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes:

Dry ingredients:

  • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1/2 cup Kahlúa coffee liqueur
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup canola oil or coconut oil
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Kahlúa Filling:

  • 2 cups cream cheese frosting
  • 6 tbsp Kahlúa coffee liqueur

Kahlúa Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:

  • 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup of Kahlúa coffee liqueur

The Recipe How-To

 The perfect treat for lazy mornings or cozy afternoons.
The perfect treat for lazy mornings or cozy afternoons.

Baking the Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two standard muffin tins (24 cupcakes total) with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix the batter

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking coffee, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and a pinch of salt.

In another bowl, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder.

In a stand mixer or using electric beaters, cream together 3/4 cup unsalted butter and 3 large eggs, then add in 1 tablespoon canola oil and mix again.

Slowly pour in the sugar-cocoa mixture and mix together on low speed until just combined.

Step 3: Add in the liquid ingredients

Mix in:
1 cup of freshly brewed coffee
1/2 cup Kahlua
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 tablespoons sour cream

Mix gently until everything is combined. Don’t overmix or the cupcakes will lose their moistness.

Step 4: Fill the muffin cups

Scoop the batter into each prepared liner, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean.

Step 5: Let them cool

Let the cupcakes cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Kahlua filling

While cupcakes are cooling, prepare the Kahlua filling by mixing together:
4 ounces of cream cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup Kahlua
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Using a piping bag, pipe the filling into the centers of each cupcake.

Step 7: Prepare Kahlua chocolate buttercream

For the Kahlua chocolate buttercream, mix together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup Kahlua
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix everything together until it becomes a smooth and creamy frosting.

Step 8: Frost the cupcakes

Using a piping bag, frost each cupcake with a generous amount of frosting.

Now your delicious Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes are ready to be enjoyed!

Substitutions and Variations

 A delightful twist on the classic cupcake recipe.
A delightful twist on the classic cupcake recipe.

In the world of cooking, nothing is set in stone, and with the Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes recipe, there are several variations and substitutions that you can consider. Here are some ideas to help you experiment with this recipe and put your spin on it:

1. Vegan option – To make these cupcakes vegan-friendly, try replacing the eggs with a flax egg or applesauce. Swap out the sour cream with vegan yogurt or coconut cream to keep them moist.

2. Gluten-free option – For those who are gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, and make sure that all ingredients used don’t contain glutens. Additionally, you may use rice flour instead of wheat flour.

3. Butter substitutes – If you do not like using butter or want something dairy-free, you can easily swap it for coconut oil, vegetable shortening or margarine (homemade kahlua works well for vegans).

4. Flavors – Want to add more flavors? Substitute some Kahlua with coffee liqueur or brandy to give these cupcakes a boozy twist. Or perhaps substitute some of the cocoa powder with chocolate chips or chocolate chunks for more chocolate flavoring.

5. Frosting substitutes- Swap out the Kahlua buttercream frosting for a salted caramel frosting or cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist!

6. Mini Cupcakes- If you prefer smaller bites of dessert, this recipe can easily be transformed into mini cupcakes by reducing baking time and size.

Remember, every substitution will produce a different flavor profile in the end-result cupcakes! So be creative!

Serving and Pairing

 The aroma of freshly baked cupcakes filled the room with happiness!
The aroma of freshly baked cupcakes filled the room with happiness!

Serving these Kahlua coffee cupcakes is just as important as making them. Do not forget to serve them in a striking way! These cupcakes are wonderful on their own, but they’re even better when you pair them with some beverages or other sweets. As the Kahlua flavor in the cupcakes is already strong enough, you don’t want to overpower it with partner drinks. Thus, avoid bold flavored drinks and stick to something plain and milder such as a cup of vanilla latte or iced tea.

For a complete dessert spread, try serving your Kahlua coffee cupcakes with some salted caramel drizzle or chocolate ganache on top. You can also garnish them with some whipped cream and cocoa powder dusting for that extra elegant touch. If you’re hosting a big event, you might want to pair these cupcakes with other mini desserts like chocolate truffles, mini fruit tarts, macarons or other bite-sized sweets to give your guests more choices.

When it comes to plating your cupcakes, use a pastel-colored plate or mat and place the cupcakes in an artistic pattern for visual appeal. To make them even fancier, you can add some edible flowers or fruits around them. Voila! Your guests will be impressed with not only the taste but also the presentation of your Kahlua coffee cupcakes.

Enjoy every bite of these moist and flavorful treats with your family and friends!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Aromas of Kahlua and coffee blend perfectly in every bite.
Aromas of Kahlua and coffee blend perfectly in every bite.

One of the best things about these delectable Kahlua coffee cupcakes is that they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to savor their full and robust flavor with ease. If you’re hosting guests or are simply looking to indulge in a sweet treat at your leisure, these cupcakes are a fantastic option.

When it comes to storing these cupcakes, it’s important to keep them in an airtight container and at room temperature. This ensures that their moist and fluffy texture remains intact. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days.

If you want to reheat your cupcakes for maximum flavor and freshness, there are plenty of methods you can explore. One option is to warm them up in the oven by preheating it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and placing the cupcakes in the oven for 5-10 minutes. This will help elevate their flavor and texture.

Another option for reheating involves a microwave; however, it is recommended that this method only be used as a last resort since the result may sacrifice some of the cupcake’s decadent texture. To reheat in a microwave, place each cupcake on a microwavable plate and heat rising one cupcake for 15 seconds per cupcake.

Overall, whether you opt for oven-baked or microwaved re-heating techniques for your Kahlua coffee cupcakes, be sure not to over-do it. Overheating can lead to uneven textures which can result in less enjoyable eating experiences.

Tips for Perfect Results

 A true bliss for coffee and chocolate connoisseurs.
A true bliss for coffee and chocolate connoisseurs.

Making Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes is an enjoyable and satisfying baking experience, especially when you achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, flavor, and texture. Here are some tips to ensure that you get the best results possible.

Firstly, be sure to use room temperature ingredients. If your butter or cream cheese is too cold, it will not blend well with the other ingredients, causing lumps in the batter. Room temperature eggs also create a smoother mixture that is easier to blend.

Secondly, it’s crucial not to overmix your cupcake batter. Overmixing can cause gluten formation in the flour, making the cupcakes dense and dry rather than light and moist. Mix on low speed only until everything is just combined.

Thirdly, try to avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking as this can cause fluctuations in temperature that affect baking time and rise. Keep your oven closed until you need to check for doneness toward the end of the baking process.

Fourthly, remember to preheat your oven accurately following the recipe instructions because an oven that is too hot or too cold can result in unevenly baked cupcakes.

Fifthly, use a cookie scoop or spoon to divide the batter evenly among cupcakes holders/moulds. This ensures all cupcakes are baked for the same amount of time and will have consistent size and appearance.

Lastly, for an extra special touch, try using Kahlua in various ways throughout your cupcake recipe! Kahlua can be used not only in cupcake batter but also in frosting, filling or glazing a cake. A dash of homemade Kahlua whipped up with unsweetened heavy cream or topping your chocolate coffee flavored cappuccino cupcakes with salted caramel could be just what you need to make it even more delicious!

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating perfect Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes every time!

FAQ

As a barista and recipe developer, I understand that trying out new recipes can be overwhelming and questions can arise. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about this Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes recipe. Read on to find answers to common queries and tips for making these cupcakes perfect every time.

What is the secret to moist cupcakes?

A crucial tip to bake soft and airy cupcakes is to incorporate air bubbles in the batter, which will then stretch upon baking. Over-mixing the batter, however, destroys the air bubbles and results in a dense, undesirable cake. Remember to blend your ingredients on low speed and stop when they have just combined.

What is the secret to good cupcakes?

Before starting to bake, ensure all the ingredients are left out to reach room temperature. When making the cupcake batter, be careful not to overmix it as it can result in a dense and unpleasant texture. For uniform-sized cupcakes, use a cupcake scoop to divvy up the batter amongst the liners. When filling liners, avoid overfilling as this can cause the batter to spill over while baking. To bake the cupcakes evenly, place the pan in the center rack of the oven. To check if the cupcakes are done, use the touch test rather than a toothpick. Once they are ready, remove the cupcakes from the pan to cool down.

How long does Kahlua cake last in the fridge?

If you’re making Kahlua cake and glaze, it’s best to store them separately to maintain their quality. You can keep the cake fresh for up to three days by placing it on a domed cake plate on your kitchen counter. As for the glaze, make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve its freshness.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, these Kahlua coffee cupcakes are the perfect treat for any caffeine lover. With the rich flavor of coffee and the sweet taste of Kahlua, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet snack on a lazy afternoon or enjoying dessert after an elegant dinner, you can never go wrong with these irresistible cupcakes.

By following the recipe and tips detailed in this article, you can easily make your own batch of moist and fluffy Kahlua coffee cupcakes. Experiment with different variations and substitutions to suit your personal taste and preference. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

So why wait? Grab your apron and start baking! You won’t be disappointed by these delectable treats. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll never want to go back to regular cupcakes again.

Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes

Kahlua Coffee Cupcakes Recipe

Dense chocolate Kahlua cupcakes with a Kahlua candy center topped with coffee flavored buttercream icing.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 cupcakes
Calories 294.1 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups flour (448 grams)
  • 2 cups sugar (448 grams)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 gram)
  • 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (112 grams)
  • 1/4 cup water (120 ml)
  • 1/4 cup Kahlua (120 ml)
  • 1/2 cup butter (112 grams)
  • 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature (240 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla (5 ml)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda (6 grams)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 16 kahlua liqueur-filled chocolates, by Turin

Instructions
 

  • Grease or line two cupcake pans. Preheat oven to 350°F In mixer, combine flour, sugar and salt.
  • Melt chocolate with butter, Kahlua and water Add melted chocolate mixture to flour mixture and mix lightly. Add sour cream, vanilla, baking soda and eggs and mix well for 2 minutes.
  • Pour batter into pans and press a Kahlua candy into each cake. Be careful that the candy does not touch the bottom of the pan. Cover the chocolate with additional batter, if desired. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the cakes bounces back when pressed gently. Cool on rack 10 minutes and unmold cakes to cake rack to cool completely before frosting.
  • Top each cupcake with the buttercream.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 67gCalories: 294.1kcalCarbohydrates: 41.1gProtein: 3.8gFat: 13.3gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 214mgFiber: 1.6gSugar: 26.6g
Keyword < 60 Mins, Dessert, Easy, For Large Groups, Mixer, Small Appliance, Stove Top
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Recommended Recipes Just For You

None found