Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup
- Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup (1 stick)
- Large eggs: 2
- Dill pickles (finely diced): ½ cup
- Dill pickle brine: ¼ cup
- Cream cheese (softened, for frosting): 8 ounces
- Powdered sugar (for frosting): 1 ½ cups
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and granulated sugar, setting the mixture aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Gradually alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the ¼ cup of pickle brine until a cohesive batter forms. Gently fold in the ½ cup of finely diced dill pickles.
- Step 3: Distribute the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely.
- Step 4: While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar until the frosting is light and fluffy. Optionally, beat in 1 tablespoon of additional pickle brine for extra flavor complexity.
- Step 5: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, transfer the cream cheese frosting to a piping bag (or use a spatula) and generously frost each cupcake. Garnish the top of each "Pickle Cupcake" with a small slice or fan of dill pickle before serving.
Notes
- Store finished cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing them to come close to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
- When adding the pickle brine, mix only until the batter is just combined; overmixing with the liquid additions can result in a tougher cupcake texture.
- If refrigerated, remove the cupcakes 30 minutes prior to serving; avoid using a microwave, as the cream cheese frosting will melt rapidly and ruin the presentation.
- For a truly unique experience, serve these savory-sweet treats alongside a sharp, aged cheddar cube or a simple glass of chilled sparkling lemonade.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American