Cupcakes and coffee—a duo that feels like a warm hug, right? As chefs, we're always fascinated by how these two complement each other so effortlessly. The sweetness of a perfectly baked cupcake, balanced by a bold cup of coffee, brings a sense of comfort and delight with every bite and sip.
Whether you’re looking to bake your own at home or indulge at a cozy café, let’s explore this classic pairing with a bit of flair.
Recipe: Vanilla Cupcakes with Coffee-Infused Frosting
There’s something magical about making cupcakes from scratch. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, the anticipation of that first bite… it’s an experience all on its own.
Here’s a simple recipe for fluffy vanilla cupcakes with a rich, coffee-infused frosting to bring the best of both worlds together:
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
A pinch of salt
For the Coffee Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon instant coffee dissolved in a tablespoon of warm water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tray with paper liners to keep things neat.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale—this step gives your cupcakes that light, airy texture. Add in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until it’s all just combined.
4. Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds of the way. This gives them room to rise without spilling over.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
6. For the frosting, beat the butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar. Stir in the coffee mixture and vanilla, whipping it up until light and creamy. Frost generously and enjoy the rich coffee kick!
These cupcakes are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee on the side—double the joy, double the flavor.
Where to Find the Best Cupcakes & Coffee
Now, if you’re like Lykkers and love a good coffee-and-cupcake outing
Here are some must-visit spots to get your fix:
1. Magnolia Bakery, New York City
Magnolia is iconic, not just for its cupcakes but for the whole NYC experience it offers. Their vanilla and chocolate cupcakes are classics, but they also have rotating seasonal flavors. For around $4 a cupcake, you can pair it with a rich Americano and enjoy a timeless treat.
2. Peggy Porschen, London
Peggy Porschen knows how to do pretty. Their pastel pink shop is famous for its Instagram-worthy decor and beautifully crafted cupcakes. Try the strawberry or lemon flavors, which cost around £5 each, and pair them with a smooth latte for the perfect afternoon indulgence.
3. Blue Bottle Coffee, Tokyo
Blue Bottle’s approach to coffee is all about precision and quality, and their minimalist style has found a perfect match in Tokyo’s refined coffee culture. Grab a hand-poured coffee and a simple vanilla cupcake, usually around ¥800 for the combo. It’s a quiet, thoughtful experience that makes you slow down and savor.
Cupcake & Coffee Food Tours
For the true cupcake and coffee aficionados, why not make a day of it? In big cities like New York, Tokyo, and London, food tours often include stops at the best bakeries and coffee shops. It’s a fun, delicious way to discover new flavors and support local artisans.
In New York City, a tour could start at Magnolia Bakery, wind through Georgetown Cupcake, and wrap up with an espresso from Stumptown Coffee Roasters. You’ll get a mix of classic, experimental, and high-quality coffee on one trip.
In Tokyo, food tours featuring Japanese coffee culture often stop at places like Blue Bottle, local kissaten (traditional coffee houses), and bakeries that offer unique, seasonal cupcake flavors. It’s the perfect way to experience Japanese takes on these Western treats.
Tips for Pairing Cupcakes & Coffee
To really get the best out of this combo.
Here are a few tips:
1. Balance Sweetness and Boldness: Pair rich or sweet cupcakes with a strong coffee, like an espresso or Americano, to create a satisfying balance.
2. Experiment with Coffee in Frosting: Adding coffee to frosting or glaze brings out deeper, richer flavors in your cupcake, making it taste even more luxurious.
3. Explore Seasonal Flavors: Many cafés have limited-edition flavors that are worth trying. Think pumpkin spice in autumn or peppermint in winter—each season has its own taste to offer!
Final thoughts
Cupcakes and coffee are a timeless, comforting combination. Whether you’re baking your own or exploring the best spots in the city, this pairing offers a little bit of joy in every bite and sip.
For Lykkers and all dessert lovers, this guide is just the beginning of a delicious journey through the world of cupcakes and coffee.
