Simple Christmas Cupcakes: 7 Festive Treats to Cherish

November 30, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my gosh, it’s that magical time of year again—when the scent of freshly baked goodies fills the air and the excitement of the holidays dances in our hearts! There’s just something so joyful about festive baking, isn’t there? That’s why I can’t wait to share my recipe for *simple Christmas cupcakes* with you! These little delights are not only super easy to whip up, but they also bring a touch of cheer to any holiday gathering.

Every year, I look forward to a fun tradition with my family where we gather in the kitchen, armed with aprons and sprinkles, to bake together. We play our favorite holiday tunes, and the laughter and taste-testing are just as important as the baking itself! Trust me, these cupcakes are a perfect canvas for creativity. You can deck them out with red and green sprinkles or even make them your own with different frostings. They’re a hit every time, and I promise they’ll become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations too!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful *simple Christmas cupcakes*! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cupcakes, giving them that fluffy texture we all love.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It helps create that lovely, moist crumb.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s softened so it mixes in beautifully. This adds richness and flavor!
2 large eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients and providing structure.
1/2 cup milk: This adds moisture and keeps the cupcakes nice and tender.
2 teaspoons baking powder: This is your leavening agent, helping the cupcakes rise perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, comforting flavor that makes everything better!
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting): This will create a sweet and creamy frosting that’s simply irresistible.
2 tablespoons milk (for frosting): This helps achieve the perfect consistency for your frosting.
Red and green sprinkles: Let’s not forget the festive touch! These bring the holiday spirit to life.

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get those festive vibes going! Follow these simple steps to create your *simple Christmas cupcakes*—you’ll be amazed at how quick and easy it is!

Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Trust me, this step is vital for that moist texture!
Add the eggs: Now, crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a smooth batter. You want the mixture to be well combined and a bit airy.
Stir in the vanilla: Pour in that lovely vanilla extract and give it a good mix. It’s going to make your kitchen smell amazing!
Combine the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the flour.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. This method helps keep your batter smooth and lump-free!
Fill the cupcake liners: Line a cupcake tin with liners and fill each one about two-thirds full with the batter. This leaves enough room for them to rise without overflowing.
Bake: Pop those beauties into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary!
Cool completely: Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from getting soggy.
Make the frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, mix the powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth frosting. Adjust the milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency—just creamy enough to spread easily!
Frost and decorate: Once your cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with your sweet frosting, then top with those festive red and green sprinkles. Go wild—this is the fun part!

And there you have it! Your *simple Christmas cupcakes* are ready to spread some holiday cheer. Enjoy every bite of your festive creation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delightful cupcakes whipped up in no time!
Perfect for holiday gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a festive party or just need a sweet treat to share, these cupcakes are sure to impress and bring smiles all around.
Customizable with toppings: Get creative! You can jazz them up with various frostings, sprinkles, or even fun decorations that match your holiday theme.
Fun for kids and adults alike: Baking these cupcakes is a joy to do with family or friends—everyone can get involved in decorating and tasting the results!

Tips for Success

To make sure your *simple Christmas cupcakes* turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you achieve cupcake glory:

Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
Measure accurately: When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Don’t pack it down! This keeps your cupcakes light and fluffy.
Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, and we want them airy and delightful!
Check for doneness: Ovens can be a bit finicky, so start checking your cupcakes a couple of minutes early. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!
Let them cool properly: After baking, allow your cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents sogginess.
Frost at the right time: Always frost your cupcakes when they’re completely cool. If they’re warm, the frosting will melt and slide off—yikes!
Have fun with decorations: Don’t be shy with the sprinkles! This is your chance to get creative and make them festive. Let your personality shine through in your decorations!

Following these tips will help ensure your *simple Christmas cupcakes* turn out beautifully every time. Happy baking and enjoy the festive delight!

Variations

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous or just want to add a twist to your *simple Christmas cupcakes*, I’ve got some fabulous variations that will keep the festive spirit alive and make your cupcakes even more delightful!

Chocolate Christmas Cupcakes: Substitute 1/2 cup of the all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for rich, chocolatey goodness. You can also add chocolate chips for an extra surprise!
Spiced Eggnog Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter for a cozy eggnog-inspired twist. It’s like a warm hug in cupcake form!
Red Velvet Cupcakes: Use red velvet cake mix instead of the basic cupcake batter. Top with cream cheese frosting and festive red and green sprinkles for a stunning holiday treat!
Coconut Frosting: Swap the standard frosting for a coconut buttercream by mixing shredded coconut into your frosting. It adds a tropical flair that works beautifully with the holiday theme!
Mint Chocolate Chip: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter and fold in some mini chocolate chips. Top with a mint-flavored frosting and crushed candy canes for a refreshing twist!
Fruit-topped Cupcakes: After frosting, add fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries on top for a burst of color and freshness. You can even drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the fruit for an elegant touch!
Decorative Toppings: Get creative with your decorations! Use edible glitter, holiday-themed sprinkles, or even little fondant figures to make your cupcakes stand out at any gathering.

These variations are not only fun to try but also allow you to personalize your *simple Christmas cupcakes* to suit your taste or the theme of your holiday parties. So go ahead, mix it up, and spread that festive cheer!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of those delightful *simple Christmas cupcakes*, you might be wondering how to keep them fresh for later enjoyment. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

First off, to store your cupcakes, simply place them in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out and helps maintain their soft, fluffy goodness. You can store them at room temperature for up to 3 days, but if you want to keep them for a little longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll last about a week.

If you’ve frosted your cupcakes, it’s best to store them in the fridge to keep the frosting from melting. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving, as they taste even better when they’re a bit warm and cozy.

Now, if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is a rarity in my house!), you can also freeze your cupcakes. Just wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be just as delightful as the day you baked them!

As for reheating, if you prefer your cupcakes warm, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll end up with a rubbery texture—yikes! A quick zap is all you need to bring back that lovely warmth.

Following these storage tips will ensure your *simple Christmas cupcakes* remain a sweet treat that you can enjoy long after they’re baked. Happy indulging!

Nutritional Information

Now, I know you might be curious about what’s in those delightful *simple Christmas cupcakes*, so here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional information per cupcake. It’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, right?

Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 2g

These cupcakes are a sweet treat, with a lovely balance of flavors and textures. Enjoying one (or maybe two!) during the festive season is totally worth it, especially when they bring so much joy. Just remember, balance is key, so savor each bite!

FAQ Section

As you dive into making your *simple Christmas cupcakes*, you might have a few questions pop up along the way. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with helpful answers:

Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil in place of butter, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Using oil will make your cupcakes a bit denser, but they’ll still be delicious!

How do I make the frosting?
To make the frosting, simply mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk until you reach a smooth and spreadable consistency. If you want it sweeter or thicker, add more powdered sugar, and if you like it thinner, just a splash more milk will do the trick!

Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk alternative you prefer. Just remember that using flavored milk, like vanilla or chocolate, can add a fun twist to your cupcakes!

What if I don’t have cupcake liners?
No problem! You can grease the cupcake tin with a bit of cooking spray or butter instead. Just be sure to let them cool before trying to remove them from the pan, so they don’t stick!

How can I decorate my cupcakes?
Get creative! You can use red and green sprinkles, edible glitter, or even mini candy canes. For a more elaborate decoration, try piping the frosting with different tips to create swirls or rosettes. It’s all about having fun and making them festive!

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum in it, or add a bit of it separately to help with the texture.

How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve frosted them, it’s best to keep them in the fridge to maintain the frosting’s integrity.

Can I make the cupcakes in advance?
Definitely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just wait to frost them until the day you’re serving them to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

There you go! I hope these FAQs help you on your merry baking adventure. Enjoy making your *simple Christmas cupcakes* and let the holiday spirit shine through each delightful bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.