If you’re in search of a dessert that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day but want to skip the typical green-themed options, look no further than these delicious Guinness cupcakes with Nutella cream cheese frosting. The combination of rich Guinness beer, dark chocolate, and creamy Nutella frosting creates a light, moist, and subtly sweet treat. These cupcakes are a year-round favorite, offering a delightful flavor profile that’s both unique and unforgettable.
Unlike traditional Guinness cupcakes that often feature whiskey-based frosting, this recipe uses Nutella to elevate the cream cheese frosting to an entirely new level of deliciousness. The cupcakes themselves are tender with just a hint of Guinness flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy, nutty frosting. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion—especially St. Patrick’s Day!
Ingredients for Guinness Cupcakes with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting
For the Cupcakes:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (320 grams)
- 2 cups sugar (400 grams)
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder (I use Hershey’s Special Dark) (60 grams)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda (7 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 gram)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (1 gram)
- 1/2 cup milk (120 milliliters)
- 12 oz Guinness beer (350 milliliters)
- 1/2 cup canola oil (120 milliliters)
- 1/2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (7 milliliters)
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, measured out and room temperature for 20 minutes (180 milliliters)
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (115 grams)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature (225 grams)
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar (360 grams)
- 1/3 cup Nutella spread (100 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 gram)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (5 milliliters)
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream (15 milliliters)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Guinness Cupcakes with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting
- Prepare the Ingredients: Set the butter, cream cheese, and buttermilk out to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line the Muffin Tins: Line muffin tins with cupcake liners (about 24).
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer (or any large mixing bowl, if you’re using a handheld mixer), combine the Guinness, milk, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating for about 1 minute after each addition. If using a stand mixer, switch to the paddle attachment once the eggs are incorporated.
- Add Buttermilk: Add the room temperature buttermilk and beat until well combined.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just incorporated.
- Check the Consistency: The batter will be thin and might have a few lumps, but that’s completely fine.
- Fill the Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through. The tops should spring back when lightly touched, and a toothpick should come out clean.
- Cool the Cupcakes: Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In the bowl of a stand mixer (fitted with the paddle attachment) or any large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth, about 3-5 minutes on medium speed.
- Add Nutella and Flavorings: Add the Nutella, salt, and vanilla extract; beat until well combined.
- Add the Sugar: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar on low speed. Once fully incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat until the frosting is smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk or cream and beat until fully combined.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes using a small offset spatula. Decorate as desired with chocolate candy, malt balls, or a St. Patrick’s Day-themed decoration.
These Guinness cupcakes with Nutella cream cheese frosting are the perfect treat to enjoy any time of year, but they are particularly special for St. Patrick’s Day. The rich flavors of Guinness and Nutella make for a uniquely indulgent dessert that will impress guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just craving something delicious, these cupcakes are sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!
