Ingredients:
For the Bacon Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled (for the cupcakes)
Additional crispy bacon for garnish (optional)
For the Maple Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Instructions:
For the Bacon Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Mix in the maple syrup.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the crumbled crispy bacon.
Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Maple Buttercream:
In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar or maple syrup as needed.
Assembly:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the Maple Buttercream on top of the cupcakes using your preferred decorating tip.
Optionally, garnish with a piece of crispy bacon or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory touch.
These Maple Bacon Cupcakes are a unique and delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The rich maple and crispy bacon provide a tantalizing contrast that’s perfect for those who enjoy the unexpected in their desserts. Enjoy the irresistible maple-bacon fusion in every bite!