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Root Beer Float Cupcakes

A fun twist on the classic root beer float, these chocolate cupcakes are topped with creamy buttercream, making them perfect for any celebration.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cupcakes

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup high-quality root beer Use high-quality root beer for the best taste.
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened (two sticks)
  • 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons root beer concentrate
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with liners.
  • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a second bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk, root beer, vegetable oil, and vanilla until well combined.
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until very well mixed.
  • Pour the batter into the cupcake liners.

Baking

  • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.

Frosting

  • While the cupcakes are baking, make the buttercream. Beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and root beer concentrate to the butter. Beat the frosting until it becomes fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add salt and mix well.

Assembly

  • Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe the buttercream onto each cupcake. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

These cupcakes are best served at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a true float experience. To store, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Keyword Baking, Chocolate, Cupcakes, Dessert, Root Beer Float