Name: Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes for Sweet Nostalgic Delights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (substitute with a gluten-free blend for gluten-free option); 1 cup Caster Sugar (adds sweetness and moisture); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (leavens the batter for fluffy cupcakes); 1 pinch Fine Salt (enhances sweetness and balances flavors); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (can be replaced with margarine for dairy-free option); 2 large Large Eggs (provides structure and stability); 1 cup Whole Milk (can substitute with almond milk for dairy-free version); 1/2 cup Cherry Juice (the star flavor component extracted from canned cherries); 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (can use canola oil as an alternative); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream (sour cream can be replaced with buttermilk for a twist); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (swap for vanilla bean paste for a richer taste); 1 cup Canned Cherries (replace with fresh cherries for a fresher taste); 1/4 cup Malt Powder (infuses nostalgic malt flavor); 1/4 cup Chocolate Sauce (adds sweetness and visual appeal); 12 pieces Maraschino Cherries (pop of color and flavor); 1 tbsp Pink & Purple Food Gel (optional for aesthetic appeal); 1 tsp Cherry Brandy Essence (deepens cherry flavor; can omit if not available)

As I took my first bite of these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes, the nostalgia hit me like a wave of summer afternoons spent at the local soda fountain. With a tantalizing cherry flavor and a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth, these cupcakes are your perfect sweet escape. The delightful combination of soft cake and rich malt flavor not only makes them a crowd-pleaser but also keeps your baking simple and stress-free. Perfect for a quick dessert or to impress guests at your next gathering, these cupcakes are an irresistible treat for anyone tired of fast food. Ready to bring a taste of classic Americana to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why are Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes unforgettable?

Nostalgic Delight: Each bite transports you back to sweet summer days at the soda fountain, making them a memory-filled treat.
Fluffy Texture: Light and airy, these cupcakes melt in your mouth, while the creamy frosting adds a luscious finish.
Flavor Fusion: The rich cherry flavor harmonizes beautifully with the malt undertones, creating a deliciously unique experience.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, baking is a breeze – perfect for busy home cooks!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for any gathering, these cupcakes are sure to impress friends and family alike.
If you’re looking for more delicious desserts that are equally easy to prepare, check out our Irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookies or the classic Vanilla Bean Cupcakes.

Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcake Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for these Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Caster Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; the superfine texture helps create a tender crumb.
Baking Powder – Leavens the batter for fluffy cupcakes, ensuring a delightful rise.
Fine Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors, making each bite more delicious.
Unsalted Butter – Brings richness and flavor; can be replaced with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Large Eggs – Provides structure and stability, essential for binding the ingredients together.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture; can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Cherry Juice – The star flavor component and source of moisture; extracted from canned cherries.
Vegetable Oil – Tenderizes the cupcakes; using canola oil is a suitable alternative.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tang; sour cream can be replaced with buttermilk for a twist.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; swap for vanilla bean paste for a richer taste.
Canned Cherries – Bursts of fruitiness in your cupcakes; replace with fresh cherries for a fresher taste.
Malt Powder – Infuses that nostalgic malt flavor reminiscent of a classic milkshake.

For the Topping

Chocolate Sauce – A perfect drizzle to add sweetness and visual appeal to your cupcakes.
Maraschino Cherries – A traditional garnish for a pop of color and flavor; can use fresh cherries instead.
Pink & Purple Food Gel – For aesthetic appeal; optional to elevate the visual charm of your cupcakes.
Cherry Brandy Essence – Deepens the cherry flavor; feel free to omit if you don’t have it on hand.

These Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are sure to create an unforgettable experience for your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your fan-forced oven to 160°C (320°F) or 180°C (356°F) for conventional ovens. This ensures your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and line a cupcake tin with colorful cupcake liners for an inviting presentation.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, caster sugar, and fine salt. Mix on low speed until everything is well incorporated, ensuring no lumps remain. This mix will provide the structure and sweetness your cupcakes need, setting a solid foundation for those delightful cherry flavors to shine through.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Add the softened unsalted butter to the dry mixture, mixing until the texture resembles fine sand. This process will help incorporate the butter thoroughly, adding richness to your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes. You should see the mixture turn crumbly, allowing the cupcakes to achieve that sought-after tender crumb.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate jug, whisk together the cherry juice, milk, eggs, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. This flavorful blend will add moisture and depth to your cupcakes, embodying the essence of a classic milkshake. Make sure everything is well-mixed for consistent flavor throughout.

Step 5: Mix Together
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until no dry bits are visible. Avoid overmixing, which could toughen your batter. At this point, incorporate the cherry brandy essence and optional food gels, giving your batter a vibrant hue and an extra kick of flavor.

Step 6: Add Cherries
Carefully place four cherries into each cupcake liner, creating delightful bursts of fruitiness in every bite. Next, fill each cup with the prepared batter, ensuring they’re about three-quarters full. This allows enough space for the cupcakes to rise beautifully without overflowing, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma as they bake.

Step 7: Bake
Place your filled cupcake tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are perfectly baked. Let them rest in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Frosting
Prepare a creamy frosting by combining butter, powdered sugar, food dye, and a splash of cherry brandy essence in a mixing bowl. Beat until fluffy and well-blended, creating a beautiful, vibrant topping for your cupcakes. This frosting will add that luscious finish, reminiscent of the whipped cream topping on a milkshake.

Step 9: Frost Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag to swirl the frosting on top in a lovely spiral pattern. Drizzle over some chocolate sauce for an added sweetness and visual appeal. Finish off each cupcake with a maraschino cherry on top, creating an irresistible cherry malt milkshake look that’s sure to impress everyone.

Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcake Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cupcakes—there’s a world of flavor waiting to be discovered!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for deliciously light cupcakes suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. Make sure to check your baking powder for gluten-free certification!
Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond milk and unsalted butter with margarine to create a friendly, dairy-free version. Your cupcakes will still be soft and fluffy.
Fruit Swap: Swap canned cherries for fresh blueberries or strawberries for a refreshing twist. Their juicy texture will elevate the experience further.
Chocolate Boost: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate malt version. Don’t forget to toss in some chocolate chips for that delightful surprise!
Sour Cream Substitute: If you’re out of Greek yogurt, buttermilk can work wonders in keeping your cupcakes moist and flavorful. Trust me, it’s a creamy good time!
Citrus Zing: Introduce a splash of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy twist. This subtle change will invigorate every bite while complementing the cherry flavor beautifully.
Extra Maltiness: Boost the malt flavor by adding an extra tablespoon of malt powder. This will intensify that nostalgic milkshake taste that we all adore.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an unexpected yet delightful warm spice profile. Just a hint will take these cupcakes to the next level!

If you’re in the mood for something equally delightful, don’t miss our Chocolate Chip Cookie or Classic Vanilla Bean Cupcakes recipes that are perfect for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes

Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for smoother blending into the dry ingredients, preventing clumps.
Mixing Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter; this will help keep your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes light and fluffy.
Cooling Time: Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fruit juices or extracts if you want to swap out the cherry juice for more unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestion: Pair your cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat that complements the malt flavor beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly sealed to maintain moisture. Additionally, the cupcakes themselves can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature; just wait to frost them until you’re ready to serve to keep the frosting fresh and fluffy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply frost the cooled cupcakes with your prepared buttercream and add the chocolate drizzle and maraschino cherries just before serving, ensuring they taste just as delightful as when they were freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, you may store the cupcakes in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze frosted or unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Reheating: To warm up a cupcake, place it in the microwave on a low setting for about 10-15 seconds. This will rekindle that fresh-baked feel without drying out your Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes.

What to Serve with Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes

These cupcakes are not just delightful on their own; pairing them opens up a world of flavors that transforms dessert into a splendid experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the rich cherry flavor, adding a refreshing chill.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the overall indulgence and adds a rich dimension to each bite.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries to provide a bright, tart contrast to the sweet cupcakes.
Milkshakes: Lean into the milkshake theme! A classic vanilla or cherry milkshake will echo the cupcake’s nostalgic flavors while delighting the senses.
Coffee: Pair your cupcakes with a cup of strong coffee; the bitterness balances the sweetness and enhances the cherry and malt flavors.
Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing and vibrant counterpoint, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a citrus splash to your dessert table.
Champagne: Celebrate special moments with a glass of bubbly champagne; its effervescence and slight acidity complement the sweetness of the cupcakes beautifully.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top adds an airy texture and enhances the cupcake’s milkshake essence.
Nutty Topping: Crushed pistachios or almonds sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and nuttiness, enhancing the flavor profile.

Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes?
All-purpose flour is ideal for these cupcakes as it provides the necessary structure. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the blend’s packaging instructions for best results!

How should I store my Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes?
Store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re in a warmer climate, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes? How do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cupcakes, either frosted or unfrosted, in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure they are completely cool, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in the container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before savoring.

What if my cupcake batter is too thick or too thin?
If your batter is too thick, add a bit more milk – about a tablespoon at a time – until you achieve a smoother consistency. If it’s too thin, carefully add a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up. Remember, it’s important not to overmix as this can lead to dense cupcakes!

Can children or pets eat Cherry Malt Milkshake Cupcakes?
These cupcakes contain ingredients that are safe for children but do contain sugar and cherries, which should be given in moderation. As for pets, avoid letting them have cupcakes, particularly due to the sugar and potential chocolate sauce. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about specific ingredients.

What should I do if my cupcakes don’t rise properly?
If your cupcakes don’t rise well, it could be due to expired baking powder or overmixing the batter. Make sure your baking powder is fresh (check the expiration date), and when mixing, blend only until all ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough batter that doesn’t rise!