Decadent Whiskey Pecan Cupcakes

Indulge in a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and the warm, smoky notes of whiskey. These Decadent Whiskey Pecan Cupcakes bring together bold flavors with a touch of sophistication, making them a standout choice for celebrations or special occasions. Complete with a luxurious whiskey-infused frosting and a fun pipette garnish, this recipe is as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 box triple chocolate cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1¼ cups water
• ½ cup canola oil

For the Pecan Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp cornstarch (cornflour)
• ¾ cup light corn syrup
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 Tbsp whiskey
• 1½ cups chopped pecans
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Whiskey Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2½ cups powdered sugar (icing sugar)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 Tbsp whiskey
• 3–5 Tbsp heavy whipping cream (double cream)

To Decorate:

• 18 mini pipettes filled with whiskey (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with 18 cupcake liners.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a spacious bowl, whisk together the triple chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and canola oil. Mix until the batter is smooth and fully blended.
3. Fill the Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
4. Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Topping

1. Combine the Sugars: In a medium saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Heat the Mixture: Stir in the corn syrup, melted butter, and kosher salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to bubble.
3. Incorporate the Eggs and Whiskey: Gradually stir in the lightly beaten eggs and cook for 1–2 minutes, ensuring the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the whiskey, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Allow to cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Whiskey Frosting

1. Beat the Butter: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy and fluffy.
2. Incorporate Sugar and Flavoring: Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, ensuring it’s fully combined before adding the next. Once incorporated, beat in the vanilla extract and whiskey.
3. Adjust the Consistency: Add the heavy whipping cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for piping or spreading.

Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Top the Cupcakes: Spoon a generous amount of the pecan topping onto each cupcake, letting it settle naturally on the surface.
2. Frost the Cupcakes: Pipe or spread the whiskey frosting over the pecan topping, ensuring a beautiful, layered presentation.
3. Add the Whiskey Pipettes: For a fun and interactive garnish, insert a mini whiskey-filled pipette into each cupcake.

Conclusion

These Decadent Whiskey Pecan Cupcakes are the ultimate indulgence for whiskey lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. The moist chocolate base, rich pecan topping, and smooth whiskey frosting combine for a symphony of textures and flavors. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or any event that calls for a memorable dessert, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Serve them with a sip of whiskey on the side for a truly elevated experience!