Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes

There’s something magical about a cupcake that brings a smile to your face, and these Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes do just that. Fluffy, moist, and bursting with colorful sprinkles, they’re perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you deserve a treat! The nutty aroma of brown butter adds a delightful twist to the classic funfetti flavor. Ready to whip up a batch? Let’s dive in!

Top Reasons to Make Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes

• Unique Flavor: The brown butter adds a rich, nutty depth that elevates the traditional funfetti cupcake.
• Colorful & Fun: With rainbow sprinkles throughout, these cupcakes are visually appealing and joyful.
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of whole milk and sour cream ensures a moist and tender crumb.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out the sprinkles or add different flavors to the frosting.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it great for bakers of all skill levels.

Shopping List

• 1 stick unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (do not pack your flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/3 cup rainbow sprinkles
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup boiling hot water (should be very hot)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (very soft)
• 2 ounces unsalted butter (very soft)
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted, more if needed)
• Assorted sprinkles and nonpareils for decoration

Cook’s Kit

• Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will make combining ingredients easier.
• Cupcake Pan: A standard cupcake pan is essential for perfect cupcake shapes.
• Cupcake Liners: Use colorful liners to match the funfetti theme!
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will ensure the best results.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the cupcakes quickly and evenly after baking.

Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes in Steps

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by browning your stick of unsalted butter. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Keep a close eye on it as it begins to foam and turn golden brown. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches a deep amber color and has a nutty aroma, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cupcake pan with colorful liners.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, granulated sugar, and eggs (2 large eggs and 1 yolk). Mix until well combined. Add in the whole milk, sour cream, and boiling hot water, mixing until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the very soft cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar until you reach your desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting. Top with assorted sprinkles and nonpareils for that extra funfetti flair!

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Birthday Parties: Perfect for celebrating with friends and family.
• Holidays: Customize the sprinkles for any holiday theme.
• Baby Showers: Funfetti cupcakes can be made in pastel colors for a sweet baby shower treat.
• Picnics: Easy to transport and a delightful addition to any outdoor gathering.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Do not overmix the batter; this can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
• Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt.
• Be careful not to use cold ingredients; room temperature eggs and dairy yield better texture.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the cupcake batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. The baked cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and frost!

Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

If you find the frosting too sweet, try adding more cream cheese or a little lemon juice to balance it out.

Can I use different types of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Feel free to use chocolate sprinkles, seasonal sprinkles, or even edible glitter for a unique touch.

What is the best way to store leftover cupcakes?

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Save & Share

If you loved these Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes, be sure to save the recipe and share it with your friends! Baking is always more fun when you share delightful treats with others.

These cupcakes are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of joy, color, and flavor. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a batch of these scrumptious Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcakes today!