Festive Christmas Cupcake Ideas for Holiday Celebration

We’ve got just the thing to keep you and the little ones happy this holiday season with our Christmas cupcakes ideas that are as fun to make as they are to eat! From cheerful designs to rich flavors, these festive treats will bring a smile to every child and adult’s face and add a sprinkle of magic to your celebrations. So join us in baking as we share all the recipes for these delightful cupcakes that capture the spirit of the season!

Red Velvet Christmas Cheer

Red velvet cupcakes bring a festive touch to any holiday gathering. Their rich red color is perfect for Christmas, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike. Topped with creamy white frosting and sprinkled with colorful holiday decorations, these cupcakes look as delightful as they taste.

The combination of cocoa and buttermilk gives these cupcakes a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet frosting. Each bite is moist and fluffy, making them a perfect treat for holiday parties or cozy family gatherings.

To make these festive delights, gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps below. Your little ones will love helping out in the kitchen, and the end result will surely bring smiles all around!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• Holiday sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
7. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
8. Frost the cooled cupcakes and top with holiday sprinkles.

Snowy Vanilla Wonderland

The Snowy Vanilla Wonderland cupcakes capture that festive spirit perfectly. Each cupcake is topped with a swirl of fluffy vanilla frosting, resembling soft snow drifts. The light golden hue of the cupcake contrasts beautifully with the white frosting, making them a delightful treat for kids and adults alike.

Creating these cupcakes is simple and fun. They can be a great activity to do with kids, allowing them to unleash their creativity while baking. Let’s get started with the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• Edible glitter or snow-like sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
6. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the vanilla frosting. Sprinkle with edible glitter or snow-like sprinkles for that snowy effect.
7. Serve and enjoy your Snowy Vanilla Wonderland cupcakes!

Chocolate Peppermint Delight

Chocolate Peppermint Delight cupcakes are a festive treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. These cupcakes feature a rich chocolate base topped with fluffy peppermint frosting, making them a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. The vibrant red and white colors of the frosting, sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies, create a cheerful look that kids will love.

Perfect cupcakes for your holiday party. They not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the dessert table. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is a classic that brings warmth and joy to the chilly season.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed peppermint candies for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until combined.
4. Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
6. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and peppermint extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
7. Frost the cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

White Chocolate Raspberry Dream

These White Chocolate Raspberry Dream cupcakes are a delightful treat for the holiday season. Topped with fresh raspberries and creamy white chocolate frosting, they look as good as they taste. The combination of sweet and tart flavors brings a festive vibe to any gathering.

The base of the cupcake is light and fluffy, perfectly complementing the rich white chocolate. Each bite offers a burst of raspberry goodness, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike. These cupcakes not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also add a splash of color to your holiday table.

Gather your family and friends for a fun baking session. Kids will love helping to decorate these cupcakes with fresh raspberries and white chocolate shavings. It’s a great way to create lasting memories while enjoying delicious treats!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in the white chocolate chips and fresh raspberries gently.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While the cupcakes cool, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
7. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the whipped cream and top with additional raspberries and white chocolate shavings for decoration.
8. Serve and enjoy your festive White Chocolate Raspberry Dream cupcakes!

Mint Chocolate Chip Fantasy

These Mint Chocolate Chip Fantasy cupcakes are a delightful treat for the holiday season. The soft, chocolatey base pairs perfectly with a light mint frosting, making them a festive favorite. The vibrant green frosting is topped with mini chocolate chips, adding a fun touch that kids will love.

Imagine your cozy kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of baking cupcakes. These treats not only look amazing but taste incredible too. They are perfect for holiday parties or as a special dessert for your little ones.

Let’s get started on making these festive cupcakes!

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
• Green food coloring
• Mini chocolate chips (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
4. Stir in peppermint extract for that minty flavor.
5. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes. Let them cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Add milk and green food coloring until you reach the desired color and consistency.
7. Frost the cooled cupcakes and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top.
8. Enjoy your Mint Chocolate Chip Fantasy cupcakes!

Spiced Eggnog Bliss

Spiced Eggnog Bliss cupcakes are a festive treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These delightful cupcakes feature a moist, spiced cake base infused with the warm flavors of eggnog. Topped with a rich, creamy frosting, they are perfect for any holiday gathering.

These cupcakes not only look stunning but also taste incredible. They are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike during the festive season. Baking these treats can be a fun activity to do with the family, making memories while enjoying the delicious results and if you’re thinking about a unique twist to a cupcake you can check out our Gourmet Elegant Matcha Cupcakes.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Mix in the eggnog and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
8. For the frosting, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.
9. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with ground nutmeg for decoration.

Gingerbread Cookie Surprise

These gingerbread cupcakes are a delightful treat for the holiday season. Topped with swirls of rich frosting and adorned with a cute gingerbread cookie, they bring festive cheer to any gathering. The warm spices of ginger and cinnamon fill the air, reminding everyone of cozy winter days.

Each cupcake is a surprise waiting to be discovered. Inside, you’ll find a soft, moist cake that pairs perfectly with the sweet frosting. The little gingerbread cookie on top adds a fun touch, making these treats a hit with kids and adults alike.

Perfect for holiday parties or as a special dessert for family gatherings, these cupcakes are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup molasses
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup buttercream frosting
• Mini gingerbread cookies for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the molasses and buttermilk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. Pipe buttercream frosting on top and place a mini gingerbread cookie on each cupcake.

Caramel Apple Festivity

These Caramel Apple Cupcakes are a delightful treat for the holiday season. Imagine a fluffy cupcake topped with creamy frosting, drizzled with rich caramel sauce. The warm colors of the apples and caramel create a festive vibe, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Each bite brings a burst of apple flavor, complemented by the sweetness of the caramel. It’s a fun twist on a classic dessert that kids and adults will love. The cupcakes are not just tasty; they also look beautiful on any dessert table, making them a great centerpiece for your festive celebrations. If you love these then maybe you might love our Classic Vintage Wedding Cupcakes as well, be sure to check them out!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped apples
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup buttercream frosting
• Apple slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped apples gently.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
8. Once cooled, pipe the buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake. Drizzle with caramel sauce and add a slice of apple for decoration.

Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Indulgence

These cinnamon roll cupcakes are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake topped with a swirl of creamy frosting, all while enjoying the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. The festive season is the perfect time to treat your little ones to these sweet indulgences.

The cupcakes are beautifully decorated with a generous swirl of frosting, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing. The addition of cinnamon sticks adds a charming touch, perfect for holiday gatherings. These treats are sure to be a hit at any festive celebration and if you’re in the mood for some unique cupcakes you can check out our Unicorn Cupcakes Recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)
• Cinnamon sticks for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
4. Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder (if using) until smooth and creamy.
6. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Top each cupcake with a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.

Nutty Hazelnut Chocolate Bliss

These Nutty Hazelnut Chocolate Bliss cupcakes are a delightful treat for the festive season. Picture a rich chocolate cupcake topped with creamy hazelnut frosting. The frosting is swirled high, creating a beautiful peak, and is sprinkled with chocolate shavings for that extra touch of indulgence. These cupcakes not only look stunning but also taste heavenly, making them perfect for holiday celebrations.

Hazelnuts add a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. The combination is a crowd-pleaser, especially among kids who love sweet treats. These cupcakes can be a fun project to make with your little ones, bringing joy to the kitchen while creating delicious memories.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup crushed hazelnuts
• Chocolate shavings for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat until smooth and well combined.
4. Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
6. For the frosting, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
7. Fold in the hazelnut spread gently until combined.
8. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes, creating a swirl on top.
9. Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts and chocolate shavings over the frosting for decoration.
10. Serve and enjoy these festive treats!