Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Making the Champagne Reduction:** In a small saucepan, bring the champagne to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the champagne has reduced to about 1/4 cup. It should be slightly syrupy.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- **Making the Cupcakes:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the cooled champagne reduction. Add pink food coloring, if desired, until you reach your desired shade of pink.
- Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- **Making the Champagne Buttercream Frosting:** In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour in the champagne and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and creamy. Add more powdered sugar if the frosting is too thin, or more champagne if it's too thick.
- **Assembling the Cupcakes:** Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the champagne buttercream frosting.
- Garnish with sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh berries, if desired.
Notes
For the best flavor, use a Brut or Extra Brut pink champagne. Reducing the champagne is crucial for a concentrated flavor. Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough cupcakes. Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting. Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
