Booze-Infused Cupcakes

Not only does cooking with liquor make the whole process a hell of a lot more fun (Step 1: Pour yourself a cocktail!), but it also enhances the flavors. Start with the basic cupcake and frosting recipes below, following the instructions for the alcoholic variation of your choice (see all 9 ways underneath the recipe — why not try them all?). Think of it as a party in your mouth!

Simple Vanilla Cupcakes
Makes 24 cupcakes

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups milk (preferably whole)

Preheat the oven to 375°. Line two cupcake pans with paper liners and set aside. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the butter and the sugar until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then beat in the vanilla extract.

Add one-third of the flour mixture and beat to combine. Add half of the milk and beat to combine. Add another third of the flour, then the remaining milk, then the rest of the flour, beating to combine after each addition.

Divide the batter between the liners, filling each about 2/3 of the way full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the cupcakes are golden-brown and spring back when pressed lightly. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then frost with Simple Buttercream Frosting.

Simple Buttercream Frosting
Makes enough frosting for 24 cupcakes

1 3/4 sticks unsalted butter, softened
6 to 8 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk (preferably whole)

In a large bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer for 1 minute. Add 6 cups of confectioners’ sugar, the vanilla, and the milk. Beat on low speed until creamy. Gradually add the remaining confectioners’ sugar, a little at a time, until the frosting is thick and creamy.