If you are searching for a playful, colorful treat that bursts with nostalgic charm and sweet delight, these Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe will absolutely brighten your day. Imagine tender, buttery cupcakes packed with the crunch of finely crushed Lucky Charms cereal pieces, crowned with a fluffy, creamy marshmallow buttercream frosting and topped with those iconic marshmallows that bring a rainbow of happiness to every bite. This recipe effortlessly combines whimsy and comfort, making it the perfect dessert to share with friends or to add a touch of magic to any celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is both simple and crucial, as each component plays an important role in delivering the perfect cupcake experience. From the all-purpose flour that builds the cupcake’s structure to the marshmallow fluff that makes the frosting an irresistible cloud of sweetness, every item contributes to the unforgettable taste, texture, and visual delight.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cupcakes, providing that tender crumb you love.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your cupcakes rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that perfectly complements the cereal bits.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Helps bind the ingredients and creates structure.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cupcakes with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
- 1/2 cup finely crushed Lucky Charms cereal (marshmallows removed): Infuses the cakes with a fun crunch and that classic Lucky Charms taste.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Provides the creamy base for our dreamy buttercream.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth finish.
- 1 1/2 cups marshmallow fluff: Adds that signature gooey sweetness and fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the frosting’s flavor complexity.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream: Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading or piping.
- 1/2 cup Lucky Charms marshmallows (for topping): The cheerful, colorful finishing touch that makes these cupcakes irresistible.
How to Make Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with cute cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This simple dry mix ensures your cupcakes have a perfect rise and balanced flavor.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and looks a little like whimsical clouds ready to lift your cupcakes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb and moist texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, mix in your eggs, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, pour in the vanilla extract for that unmistakable warmth that makes every bite so comforting.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients Alternately
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in two batches, alternating with the milk. This method keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can make cupcakes tough. Mix just until everything is combined for a perfect tender base.
Step 5: Fold in Crushed Lucky Charms Cereal
Now for the magical crunch! Gently fold in the finely crushed Lucky Charms cereal pieces—marshmallows removed here to maintain a tender cake texture while infusing the batter with its signature taste.
Step 6: Bake Your Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among your liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Make the Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting
Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen. Blend in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla. Add heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until your frosting is luscious and spreadable, exactly how you want it.
Step 8: Frost and Top with Marshmallows
Spread or pipe that marshmallow buttercream generously over your cooled cupcakes. To finish, sprinkle the unmistakable Lucky Charms marshmallows for a fun and colorful finale.
How to Serve Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic marshmallow topper, consider adding edible glitter or a light drizzle of white chocolate to enhance the whimsical look. Colorful sprinkles that match the marshmallow hues also make an appealing garnish to dazzle both kids and adults alike.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a cold glass of milk or a frothy vanilla latte for a comforting combo. For a brunch spread, they complement fresh fruit salad or simple yogurt parfaits, balancing sweetness with a touch of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the cupcakes on a vibrant tiered stand decorated with rainbow-colored ribbons or place them in mini cereal bowls for a playful cereal-and-cupcake hybrid party theme. Wrapping each cupcake with a ribbon or placing them in clear treat bags also makes delightful gifts or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, store your Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them moist and fresh. Avoid refrigeration to prevent the buttercream from becoming too firm.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw completely at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Reheating
For freshly baked warmth, microwave an unfrosted cupcake for about 10-15 seconds, or until just heated through. Avoid reheating frosted cupcakes to keep the frosting texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Lucky Charms?
Absolutely! While Lucky Charms give a unique flavor and marshmallow charm, cereals like Fruity Pebbles or Trix can also work for colorful, fun cupcakes with a slightly different taste and texture.
What if I don’t have marshmallow fluff for the frosting?
You can substitute marshmallow fluff with homemade homemade marshmallow cream or use a mix of melted marshmallows and a small amount of corn syrup for comparable sweetness and texture.
Is it necessary to remove the marshmallows before crushing the cereal for the batter?
Yes, removing the marshmallows keeps the cupcake crumb tender and uniform. The marshmallows are best saved for the frosting topping where they stay visually appealing and chewy.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
To balance the sweetness, consider reducing the powdered sugar slightly or adding a pinch of salt to the frosting. Another option is swirling in a little cream cheese to introduce tang and cut through the sugar.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With some substitutions like vegan butter, plant-based milk, and egg replacers, you can definitely adapt this Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe to be vegan, though the marshmallow fluff might need a specialized vegan alternative.
Final Thoughts
These Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe bring a cheerful splash of fun to any occasion and are bound to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection. Whipping up this recipe is like baking a little party filled with sugary joy, perfect for sharing and brightening even the dullest days. Dive in, get a little messy with frosting, and watch how quickly these magical cupcakes disappear!
Print
Lucky Charms Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these whimsical Lucky Charms Cupcakes topped with a luscious marshmallow buttercream frosting. Bursting with the playful crunch of crushed Lucky Charms cereal inside the moist cupcakes and crowned with colorful marshmallow toppings, these funfetti-style cupcakes are perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup finely crushed Lucky Charms cereal (cereal pieces only, marshmallows removed)
Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups marshmallow fluff
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Lucky Charms marshmallows, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasonings.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure emulsification. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine dry and wet: Add the dry flour mixture in two additions to the wet ingredients, alternating each with half of the milk, and mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in crushed cereal: Gently fold in the finely crushed Lucky Charms cereal pieces, being careful to distribute them evenly without deflating the batter.
- Fill cupcake liners: Divide the batter evenly among the lined cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool cupcakes: Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool completely in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before frosting.
- Prepare frosting: Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid powdered sugar clouds. Blend in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Adjust frosting consistency: Add the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable texture perfect for piping or spreading.
- Frost cupcakes and garnish: Once cupcakes are cooled, frost generously with the marshmallow buttercream. Top each cupcake with Lucky Charms marshmallows for a colorful, festive finish.
Notes
- For enhanced cereal flavor, steep 1 cup of Lucky Charms cereal in warm milk for 10 minutes, strain, and use the infused milk in the batter instead of plain milk.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
