Shamrock Shake Cupcakes Recipe

These Shamrock Shake Cupcakes are a festive treat inspired by the classic Shamrock Shake. With mint-flavored cupcakes topped with a creamy green frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day!

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Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional, for a festive color)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons whole milk (or heavy cream, for extra richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
• 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
• Whipped cream and maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mint extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Add green food coloring (if using) to achieve the desired shade of green and mix until evenly incorporated.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcakes comes out clean.
9. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add the vanilla extract, mint extract, and milk. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add green food coloring to the frosting (if using) and mix until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, pipe or spread the mint frosting onto each cupcake.
2. If desired, top with a swirl of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for an extra festive touch.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve your Shamrock Shake Cupcakes at a St. Patrick's Day celebration or any fun event.
2. Enjoy these minty, sweet treats with a glass of your favorite Shamrock Shake!

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Tips for the Best Shamrock Shake Cupcakes

• Mint flavor: You can adjust the amount of mint extract in the cupcakes and frosting to suit your personal taste. If you love a strong mint flavor, feel free to add more.
• Frosting texture: For a fluffier frosting, use heavy cream instead of milk to make the frosting richer and lighter.
• Decoration ideas: You can decorate the cupcakes with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or even small shamrock candies for added flair.

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Storage

• Room temperature: Keep the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: If you need to store them for a longer period, refrigerate the cupcakes for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Enjoy your festive Shamrock Shake Cupcakes – a minty, creamy treat perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day! 🍀🧁