Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the rich flavors of chocolate and the smooth, creamy taste of Baileys Irish Cream, these Baileys Chocolate Cupcakes are perfect for you. These indulgent cupcakes are moist, decadent, and topped with a luscious Baileys-infused frosting. Whether for a party, holiday celebration, or just a special treat, they are sure to impress!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Milk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Baileys Irish Cream
Boiling water
Butter
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream
Chocolate chips or shavings (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Prepare the cupcake batter by whisking together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients in a separate bowl: beat eggs, then add sugar, milk, oil, vanilla extract, and Baileys Irish Cream.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until well incorporated.
Stir in boiling water to create a smooth batter.
Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full with batter.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool cupcakes in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Baileys frosting by beating butter until creamy, then gradually adding powdered sugar, heavy cream, and Baileys Irish Cream.
Frost the cupcakes using a piping bag or a spatula.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 cupcakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cooling & Frosting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute dairy-free milk, butter, and cream.
Extra Chocolatey: Add chocolate chips to the batter for an even richer taste.
Baileys Mocha Twist: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to enhance the flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Use Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer instead of Baileys.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Let refrigerated cupcakes come to room temperature before serving. Frozen cupcakes can be thawed in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes without Baileys?

Yes! Substitute Baileys with milk or Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer.

How do I make the cupcakes extra moist?

Adding a little sour cream or yogurt to the batter helps keep the cupcakes moist.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Chocolate ganache or a classic buttercream would also work well.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them covered. Frost before serving.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from drying out?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.

Can I use a box cake mix?

Yes! Just add Baileys to the mix for enhanced flavor.

What’s the best way to garnish these cupcakes?

Chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of melted chocolate add a great touch.

Can I make this into a cake instead of cupcakes?

Yes! Bake in an 8-inch cake pan at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

Can I make these cupcakes without eggs?

Yes! Use applesauce, mashed banana, or a commercial egg replacer.

Can I add alcohol to the frosting?

Yes! Increase the Baileys in the frosting for a stronger flavor, but adjust the powdered sugar to maintain consistency.

Conclusion

These Baileys Chocolate Cupcakes are a delicious treat for chocolate and Baileys lovers alike. With their rich, moist texture and creamy Baileys-infused frosting, they are perfect for any occasion. Try the variations to customize them to your liking and enjoy a truly indulgent dessert!