Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting
Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting Recipe from USA
Introduction
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting. This unique recipe combines the bitterness of Guinness beer with the sweetness of chocolate and maple syrup, topped off with a savory twist of candied bacon. Perfect for special occasions or just a fun treat for yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.
History
The combination of beer and chocolate in baked goods has been a popular trend in recent years, with many bakers experimenting with different types of beer to enhance the flavor of their desserts. This recipe takes that trend to the next level by adding in the unexpected element of maple-glazed bacon, creating a truly unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup Guinness
- 1 stick butter
- 0.5 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 cups flour
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 1.5 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 0.67 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Maple-Glazed Bacon
- 3 strips bacon
- 0.33 cup maple syrup
Frosting
- 8 oz (227 g) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp candied bacon drippings
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two muffin tins with cupcake liners and set them aside.
- In a pot or large saucepan, simmer the beer and butter over medium heat until the butter is completely melted.
- Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips, and stir until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, stir together the eggs and yogurt until smooth. Slowly add the chocolate mixture and vanilla.
- Add the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Spoon the batter into the lined muffin cups, filling them about halfway.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool.
- Turn the oven up to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Place the bacon strips on a baking rack and place the rack on the foil-lined baking sheet.
- Using a pastry brush, brush each strip of bacon with a layer of maple syrup.
- Bake for 10 minutes, basting the strips again halfway through.
- Flip the strips over, baste them, and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Baste the bacon one last time and return it to the oven for another 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- While the cupcakes and bacon strips are cooling, start making the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and bacon grease. Mix until smooth. Add more powdered sugar as necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
- Spoon the frosting into a piping bag and frost each cupcake.
- Slice one piece of bacon into 1-inch strips and press one piece into each frosted cupcake.
- Crumble or chop up the remaining candied bacon and sprinkle it on top of the cupcakes.
- Enjoy immediately with a big glass of milk.
Variations
- For a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the beer with brewed coffee.
- You can also experiment with different types of beer to change the flavor profile of the cupcakes.
- Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use a good quality dark beer like Guinness for the best flavor in the cupcakes.
- Make sure to cool the chocolate mixture before adding it to the egg and yogurt mixture to prevent the eggs from cooking.
- Keep an eye on the bacon while it's baking to prevent it from burning.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These cupcakes are perfect for a special occasion or as a fun dessert for a party. Serve them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delicious treat.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to properly mix the wet and dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
- Use a piping bag to frost the cupcakes for a professional finish.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of beer in place of Guinness.
- If you don't have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or buttermilk as a substitute.
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
You can bake the cupcakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frost them just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Presentation Ideas
Top the cupcakes with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. Serve them on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
These cupcakes pair well with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each cupcake contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each cupcake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each cupcake contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each cupcake contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
These cupcakes are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten.
Summary
These cupcakes are a rich and indulgent treat, high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.
Summary
Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting are a unique and indulgent treat that combines rich flavors of chocolate, beer, maple syrup, and bacon. Perfect for special occasions or just a fun dessert, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their delicious taste and creative twist. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a truly memorable treat.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting. It was a cool autumn day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a handwritten note tucked in between the recipes. It was a recipe for a decadent dessert that combined two of my favorite things: chocolate and beer.
I had never heard of using beer in a cupcake batter before, but the idea intrigued me. I could already imagine the rich, deep flavor that the beer would impart to the chocolatey cupcakes. And the thought of pairing that with a sweet and salty maple bacon frosting sent my taste buds into overdrive.
I knew I had to try making these cupcakes right away. I gathered all the ingredients listed in the recipe and set to work in my cozy kitchen. As I mixed the batter, the scent of chocolate and beer filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I carefully poured the batter into the cupcake liners and popped them into the oven, unable to resist sneaking a taste of the raw batter. It was even better than I had imagined.
As the cupcakes baked, I turned my attention to the maple bacon frosting. I cooked up a batch of crispy bacon, letting the sweet and savory aroma waft through the kitchen. I then whipped up a creamy frosting, sweetened with pure maple syrup and flecked with crunchy bits of bacon. The combination of flavors was nothing short of divine.
When the cupcakes were finally done baking, I eagerly spread the maple bacon frosting on top, marveling at how the sweet and salty flavors played off each other perfectly. I took a bite of the finished cupcake and was instantly transported to dessert heaven. The rich chocolate and beer-infused cake was moist and tender, while the maple bacon frosting added a delightful crunch and burst of flavor with every bite.
I knew that this recipe was a keeper, one that I would make again and again for special occasions and impromptu dessert cravings. I shared the cupcakes with my family and friends, and they were met with rave reviews. Everyone was amazed at the unique combination of flavors and how well they complemented each other.
Over the years, I have made these Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel sauce. But the core of the recipe remains the same, a testament to the magic of combining unexpected ingredients to create something truly special.
I often think back to that day when I first stumbled upon the recipe for these cupcakes, tucked away in an old cookbook. It was a serendipitous discovery that has brought me so much joy and countless moments of culinary delight. I am grateful for the knowledge and inspiration that my grandmother passed down to me, and I hope to do the same for future generations, sharing the magic of these Chocolate Beer Batter Cupcakes with Maple Bacon Frosting with all who have a sweet tooth and a sense of adventure in the kitchen.