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Harry Potter Butterbeer Cupcakes

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butterbeer Magic

The combination of butterscotch and vanilla flavors perfectly mimics the iconic drink from the Wizarding World.

Easy & Fun

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Customizable

Decorate with golden sprinkles, edible glitter, or Harry Potter-themed toppers for an extra magical touch.

Perfect for Parties

These cupcakes are a hit at themed events, birthday celebrations, or as a sweet surprise for any Harry Potter fan.

Kid-Friendly

Even young witches and wizards will love these buttery, sweet treats that bring a little Hogwarts magic into the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cupcakes (Makes 12–14 cupcakes)

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)
  • 1 cup butterscotch pudding mix (instant)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp butterscotch extract (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3–4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp butterscotch extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Decorations

  • Gold sprinkles or edible glitter
  • Harry Potter cupcake toppers
  • Caramel drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.

Make the Cupcake Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, butterscotch pudding mix, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and butterscotch extract.
  2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

  1. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  2. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Make the Frosting

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
  3. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, butterscotch extract, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more cream (if too thick) or powdered sugar (if too thin).

Decorate the Cupcakes

  1. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes using a piping bag fitted with a star tip or your preferred design.
  2. Sprinkle with gold sprinkles, edible glitter, or drizzle with caramel sauce for a magical touch.
  3. Add Harry Potter-themed cupcake toppers if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

Butterscotch Flavor

The pudding mix and extracts create a rich, buttery flavor reminiscent of butterbeer from the books and movies.

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Soft & Fluffy Cake

The combination of cake mix and pudding ensures a moist, tender crumb every time.

Creamy Frosting

The butterscotch-vanilla frosting ties the whole dessert together with a sweet, indulgent finish.

Variations to Try

Add Sparkle

Use edible metallic dust or luster spray to give the cupcakes a shimmering, magical look.

Layered Magic

Swirl caramel sauce into the batter before baking for a gooey surprise inside.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free cake mix and pudding mix for a delicious, allergy-friendly version.

Mini Cupcakes

Make bite-sized versions of these cupcakes for a fun, party-friendly treat.

Boozy Twist

Add a splash of butterscotch schnapps to the frosting for an adult version of butterbeer cupcakes.

Tips for Success

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

This ensures a smooth, creamy frosting and even baking for the cupcakes.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mix just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Romantic Touch

Serve on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of edible glitter for an elegant look.

Movie Night

Pair with a Harry Potter movie marathon for a magical evening of fun and sweets.

Party Platter

Arrange alongside other themed desserts like chocolate frogs or pumpkin pasties for a full Hogwarts-inspired treat table.

Final Thoughts

These Butterbeer Cupcakes bring a delightful fusion of sweet butterscotch and creamy vanilla, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet whimsical. Whether you’re hosting a Hogwarts feast, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a magical treat, this recipe is sure to impress.

Your turn! Have you ever made Harry Potter-themed treats before? Share your favorite ideas or decorating tips below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the best texture.

Can I substitute the butterscotch pudding mix?

If you can’t find butterscotch pudding mix, use vanilla pudding mix with an extra teaspoon of butterscotch extract.

How do I make a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free milk, plant-based butter, and a dairy-free pudding mix to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving.

How do I prevent my cupcakes from drying out?

Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.

These Butterbeer Cupcakes are guaranteed to bring magic to any occasion—give them a try and let the wizarding fun begin!