Bar Cupcakes are a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of a classic cupcake with the rich and creamy taste of Milky Way candy bars. These cupcakes offer a heavenly treat for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for the delightful combination of chocolate, caramel, and nougat. Topped with a Milky Way frosting and garnished with additional candy bar pieces, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering or celebration.

The history of bar cupcakes is rooted in the popularity of Milky Way candy bars, which were first introduced in the United States in the 1920s. Milky Way candy bars are known for their delicious combination of smooth milk chocolate, creamy caramel, and nougat filling. Over the years, bakers and home cooks have experimented with incorporating these delightful candy bar flavors into various desserts, and cupcakes provide the perfect canvas to do so.

The idea of transforming the flavors of a Milky Way candy bar into cupcake form emerged as a creative way to combine the beloved candy bar taste with the appeal of a handheld and portioned dessert. The cupcake’s fluffy and moist texture pairs wonderfully with the richness of the Milky Way candy bars, making for a decadent treat that is both visually appealing and delicious.

INGREDIENTS

Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

Milky Way Frosting:

• 12 oz (about 12 fun-sized) Milky Way candy bars
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 1/2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Additional chopped or cut Milky Way candy bars, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line 18 cupcake tins with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Add one-third of the flour mixture to the batter, beat to combine, then half of the buttermilk. Repeat with another third of the flour and the remaining buttermilk, followed by the remaining flour, beating just until combined between each addition.
6. Divide the cupcake batter between the 18 lined cups, filling each one about 2/3 full.
7. Bake the cupcakes until a tester comes out clean, about 18 minutes. Remove from the cupcake tins and let them cool completely.

Frosting:

1. Bring a small saucepan with about 1 inch of water to a simmer. Combine the Milky Way candy bars, butter, and milk in a large heat-proof bowl and set it over the simmering water.
2. Cook the mixture for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the candy bars have melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
3. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Add the powdered sugar and beat the mixture with a hand mixer until smooth.
4. Let the frosting sit for 10 to 15 minutes until it becomes just warm to the touch.
5. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
6. Top each cupcake with a piece of Milky Way candy bar for garnish.

Enjoy these delectable Bar Cupcakes, a heavenly combination of classic cupcakes and the beloved flavors of Milky Way candy bars, offering a delightful treat for both kids and adults alike!