Ingredients
- All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups)
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup)
- Dark brown sugar, packed (3/4 cup)
- Dark molasses (1/2 cup)
- Large eggs (2)
- Crushed juniper berries (1 tablespoon)
- Ground ginger (2 teaspoons)
- Buttermilk or whole milk (1/2 cup)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Step 2: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the dark molasses until the mixture is uniform and dark.
- Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt (and baking soda/powder, if using). Slowly alternate adding the dry mixture and the buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture, mixing only until just combined.
- Step 4: Gently fold the crushed juniper berries into the batter using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full.
- Step 5: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Notes
- Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate frosted cakes and allow them to return to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- For a wonderful warmth that awakens the spices, microwave an unfrosted cupcake for just 8 to 10 seconds before enjoying.
- Balance the deep molasses and juniper notes by topping these highly spiced cupcakes with a zesty lemon or orange cream cheese frosting.
- To prevent a dense texture, ensure you mix the batter only until the flour streaks have just disappeared, especially when folding in the crushed juniper berries at the end.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American