Why You’ll Love Harry Potter Butterbeer Cupcakes Recipe

These cupcakes capture the nostalgic, cozy flavor of Butterbeer in dessert form. They’re soft, sweet, and indulgent, yet easy enough to make at home. Perfect for themed parties, movie nights, birthdays, or any time you want a whimsical treat that feels special and comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cupcakes

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup cream soda
½ cup butterscotch chips

Frosting

¾ cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoon heavy cream
½ teaspoon butterscotch extract (or caramel extract)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt

Topping

Caramel sauce
Butterscotch chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and cream soda, mixing until combined.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Gently fold in the butterscotch chips.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy, then slowly add the powdered sugar.
Mix in the heavy cream, butterscotch extract, vanilla extract, and salt.
Beat on high speed for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Frost the cooled cupcakes, drizzle with warm caramel sauce, and garnish with butterscotch chips.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Add a butterscotch pudding filling for extra richness.
Use caramel buttercream instead of butterscotch frosting.
Top with whipped cream for a lighter finish.
Add a splash of cream soda to the frosting for extra Butterbeer flavor.
Use chocolate cupcakes for a twist on the classic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for the best texture. These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh and do not require reheating.

FAQs

What does Butterbeer taste like?

Butterbeer has a sweet, buttery, caramel-like flavor with hints of vanilla and butterscotch.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them the next day.

Do I need butterscotch extract?

No, it’s optional, but it enhances the Butterbeer flavor.

Can I substitute cream soda?

Cream soda works best, but vanilla soda can be used if needed.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting.

How do I keep the cupcakes moist?

Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for drizzling.

What piping tip works best for frosting?

A large round or star tip works well for a bakery-style look.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting and add a bit more salt to balance the flavor.

Conclusion

Harry Potter Butterbeer Cupcakes are a fun, flavorful way to bring a bit of magic into your kitchen. With their soft texture, rich frosting, and signature butterscotch taste, these cupcakes are sure to impress fans of all ages and make any occasion feel truly enchanted.