Mint Julep Cupcakes
This Mint Julep cupcake is reminiscent of the famous drink found at the iconic Kentucky Derby. This easy recipe uses real Kentucky bourbon in the batter and mint jelly in the icing to give these moist, delicious cupcakes that Mint Julep kick!
It’s almost Kentucky Derby time, and even though I’ve never been, it is on my bucket list to attend this iconic event sometime in the future. For now, I will have to vicariously enjoy it at home, watching it on the television, while indulging it a few treats like these Mint Julep Cupcakes and drinks reminiscent of this longest running sporting event in the U.S. (which is ironic, because the event is actually extremely short, about 2 minutes long.) I love seeing all the unique and crazy big hats the ladies wear, and this year I took a trip to the dollar store and challenged myself to creating a $3 derby hat…so if you’re interested in how in turned out, or you want to make one for yourself, see my blog post and instructions here…but if you just want to have a small derby party or make these for your own enjoyment, try my Mint Julep Cupcakes recipe!
Let’s begin!
Ingredients:
For Cake:
¼ tsp salt
1 ¼ tsp baking powder
½ cup softened butter (or plant-based substitute)
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
½ cup Greek yogurt (or buttermilk)
2 tbsp Kentucky Bourbon (can substitute 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract)
1 cup all-purpose flour
For Icing:
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup softened butter (or plant-based substitute)
2 tsp Kentucky Bourbon (can substitute 1 tsp vanilla extract)
1 tbsp mint jelly
Optional:
1 tsp mint extract (for added mint flavor)
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Green food color
Instructions:
Line a cupcake tin (this recipe makes 12 regular sized cupcakes) and preheat oven to 350℉ / 175℃.
Mint Bourbon Frosting directions:
HINT: The mint jelly is not overwhelming at all, I think it’s the perfect amount, however, if you want a little more mint flavor, add 1/2 tsp mint extract.