Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the idea of combining two iconic treats into one unforgettable dessert, you are going to absolutely adore this Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe. Imagine the comforting texture of a perfectly baked cupcake infused with rich chocolate chips, all topped with a luscious, cookie dough-inspired frosting that is simply irresistible. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds – a moist, tender cupcake base paired with a decadent, creamy frosting loaded with mini chocolate chips, making every bite an absolute delight that you will not want to stop eating.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that create magic when combined. Each component plays a vital role: from butter and sugars that add moisture and sweetness, to sour cream which keeps the cupcakes tender and moist. Don’t forget the mini chocolate chips which provide bursts of chocolatey goodness throughout!

• 1/2 cup butter (one stick): Provides rich flavor and creaminess to the cupcake batter.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a delicate texture.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps cupcakes super moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cupcakes tender and adds slight tanginess.
• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides the structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips: Small bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• 1 cup butter (for frosting, 2 sticks): The creamy, rich foundation for the frosting.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel flavor to the frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• 4 teaspoons vanilla: Infuses the frosting with warm, inviting aroma.
• 5 tablespoons whole milk (or more): Adjusts frosting consistency for spreading or piping.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for frosting): Gives the frosting that true cookie dough texture.
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the rich flavors in the frosting.
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips (for frosting): Adds sweet crunch and texture to the frosting.

How to Make Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Begin by lining two muffin pans with cupcake liners, then preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This sets the stage for perfectly baked cupcakes that will hold all that luscious batter without sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter until smooth. Then add in the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating the mixture for at least a minute and a half. Scraping the sides periodically ensures even mixing and a fluffy base.

Step 3: Add Oil, Eggs, and Vanilla

Pour in the vegetable oil to keep your cupcakes moist, then crack in the eggs and add the vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed, scraping the bowl again to make sure everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Sour Cream

Sour cream might sound unusual in cupcakes, but it’s a game-changer when it comes to moisture and tenderness. Beat it in thoroughly to create a wonderfully soft batter.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking powder to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution of rising agents. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, beating gently and scraping the sides of the bowl until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips

Gently stir in the mini chocolate chips with a spatula so that they’re evenly scattered throughout your batter but don’t break or melt.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Use a scoop to evenly distribute about 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter into each cupcake liner, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake the cupcakes for 16 to 20 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the tops feel set – not browned. Cool them on a wire rack once you’ve loosened them from the pan to prevent sogginess.

Step 8: Make the Cookie Dough Frosting

While cupcakes cool, make the frosting by beating 1 cup of butter until velvety smooth. Add packed brown sugar and beat again before mixing in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Don’t forget to treat the flour safely if you’re concerned! Mix that in thoroughly with salt, then fold in chocolate chips last for that iconic cookie dough texture and crunch.

Step 9: Frost Your Cupcakes

Fill a piping bag fitted with a wide tip or use a simple zip-top bag with the corner snipped. Pipe or spread the frosting in a swirl over each cupcake and sprinkle a few extra mini chocolate chips on top. Now you have cupcakes bursting with cookie dough vibes waiting to be devoured!

How to Serve Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

The best part about this Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe is that it’s already studded with chocolate chips, but adding a few extra chocolate chips or a light sprinkle of sanding sugar on top takes them over the edge. For a fun twist, sprinkle crushed cookie crumbs for extra texture and a hint of crunch.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes alongside a cold glass of milk or a rich cup of coffee. The smooth, creamy milk cuts through the sweetness perfectly, while coffee brings out the warm vanilla and buttery notes in the frosting and cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, line up these cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand decorated with fresh flowers or mini cookie pieces. You can even insert a small cookie stick or mini wooden spoon for an extra cute and interactive treat that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your cupcakes in an airtight container on the counter for up to three days. This keeps the frosting soft and the cupcakes tender without drying out. If you can’t finish them by then, refrigerate to extend freshness, but let them come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cupcakes without frosting by wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost fresh before serving for optimal flavor.

Reheating

Warm the cupcakes gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive that just-baked softness. Avoid heating frosted cupcakes too long or the frosting may melt – just a quick burst of warmth is all they need.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?

Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips will work just fine and add a lovely melty chocolate texture. Mini chips do distribute a bit more evenly throughout, but it’s up to your preference.

Is it safe to eat raw flour in the frosting?

Raw flour may contain bacteria, so it’s recommended to heat-treat the flour for the frosting by microwaving it until it reaches 160°F, or purchasing heat-treated flour. Some folks take the risk, but it’s best to be safe!

What if I don’t have sour cream for the batter?

You can substitute sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or buttermilk, which will also add moisture and tenderness to your cupcakes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it separately.

How long can I keep the cupcakes frosted?

Frosted cupcakes are best eaten within 3 days if kept at room temperature. After that, store in the refrigerator for up to a week but allow them to come back to room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Cookies Dough Cupcakes Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting. From the tender cupcake to the tantalizing cookie dough frosting studded with chocolate chips, it’s a texture and flavor sensation you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your mixing bowls and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these utterly delicious cupcakes — you will not be disappointed!

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