Kahlúa Cupcakes

The inspiration came from a desire to create a cupcake that was both elegant and indulgent, something that would be perfect for a special occasion, a dinner party, or just as a decadent treat. I wanted a cupcake that was moist, flavorful, and had a little something extra to make it stand out.

The combination of a Devil’s Food Cake base infused with coffee and Kahlúa, a rich Kahlúa chocolate ganache filling, and a fluffy chocolate-Kahlúa buttercream frosting creates a truly unforgettable cupcake that’s sure to impress.

I’m excited to share this recipe because these cupcakes are always a hit. They’re rich, decadent, and full of flavor, and the Kahlúa adds a wonderful warmth and complexity. They’re also a great way to elevate a simple box cake mix into something truly special.

Nostalgic Appeal

Kahlúa, a coffee-flavored liqueur, often evokes feelings of sophisticated cocktails, after-dinner drinks, and special occasions. It’s a flavor that’s often associated with grown-up indulgence and a touch of elegance.

These Kahlúa Cupcakes tap into that sophisticated appeal, offering a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic Kahlúa flavor in a cupcake form. They’re a reminder that baking can be both creative and elegant.

The chocolate cupcake base and the rich ganache filling also add to the nostalgic appeal, reminiscent of classic chocolate desserts and decadent treats. It’s a recipe that’s both familiar and exciting, a perfect way to indulge in a beloved flavor combination.

And that’s the beauty of these cupcakes – they combine the familiar comfort of chocolate cake with the sophisticated flavor of Kahlúa, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic (in a grown-up way!) and incredibly satisfying.

Homemade Focus

Semi-homemade and impressive.

Flavor Goal

Chocolate, coffee, and Kahlúa!

Ingredient Insights

Devil’s Food Cake, eggs, vegetable oil, strongly brewed coffee, Kahlúa, chocolate chips, heavy cream, kosher salt, butter, powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, heavy cream, pure vanilla extract, chocolate sprinkles, gold sprinkles.

Essential Equipment

Two cupcake pans, cupcake liners, large bowl, whisk, hand mixer, small saucepan, medium heat-safe bowl, large piping bag fitted with a large, open-star tip.

List of Ingredients with Measurements

For the cupcakes

• 1 box Devil’s Food Cake
• 3 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup strongly brewed coffee
• 1/4 cup Kahlúa

For the ganache

• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Kahlúa
• Pinch of kosher salt

For the frosting

• 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, plus more, if necessary
• 1 Tbsp. Kahlúa
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• Chocolate sprinkles
• Gold sprinkles