Pandan Cupcake Recipe

Embark on a delightful baking journey with this Pandan Cupcake Recipe, a culinary gem that brings the exotic essence of Southeast Asia into your home. 

Known for its unique, fragrant flavor derived from pandan leaves, this recipe transforms ordinary cupcakes into a vibrant, irresistible treat. 

Perfect for gatherings or a family dessert, these pandan cupcakes are not only easy to make but also infuse a touch of the tropics into each bite.

Personal Experience

Baking these pandan cupcakes was like a little culinary adventure in my own kitchen. The first time I tried them was at a local Asian bakery, and I was instantly hooked by their unique flavor and vibrant green color. Since then, I’ve enjoyed sharing this delightful treat with friends and family.

Equipment List

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Cupcake liners
• Cupcake/muffin tin
• Wire rack for cooling
• Sifter

Ingredients List

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup pandan juice (from fresh or frozen pandan leaves)
• Green food coloring (optional)

Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Place cupcake liners in your baking tin to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the cupcakes after baking.

Step 2:

Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3:

Creaming Butter and Sugar: Using a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4:

Incorporating Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, ensuring each one is thoroughly beaten in before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5:

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and coconut milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.

Step 6:

Add Pandan Juice: Mix in the pandan juice and a few drops of green food coloring (if using) until the color is uniform.

Step 7:

Fill and Bake: Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full. Bake the cupcakes for 18-20 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready.

Step 8:

Cooling: Let the cupcakes rest in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips For Success

1. Pandan Extract: If you cannot find fresh pandan leaves, pandan extract is a great alternative. Adjust the amount based on the intensity of the flavor.
2. Butter Preparation: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start mixing to ensure smooth blending.
3. Mixing Caution: When combining the batter, mix only until the ingredients are just incorporated to keep the cupcakes light and airy.
4. Test for Doneness: Always test with a toothpick for doneness to avoid overbaking.
5. Decorating: Top with coconut frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.

Variations

• Coconut Pandan: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a textured variant.
• Chocolate Chip Pandan: Fold in chocolate chips before baking for a sweet twist.
• Pandan Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the batter for a citrusy punch.
• Vegan Pandan: Substitute eggs with applesauce and butter with vegan butter.
• Mini Pandan Cupcakes: Make mini versions for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.

Conclusion

With their distinct green hue and aromatic flavor, these Pandan Cupcakes are sure to be a standout at any dessert table. 

This Pandan Cupcake Recipe captures the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine in a simple, enjoyable baking experience. 

Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced connoisseur, these cupcakes provide a perfect way to explore new flavors while delighting your taste buds with their lush, tropical charm.

FAQs

Are pandan cupcakes suitable for vegans?

Traditional pandan cupcakes contain eggs and butter, but they can be adapted for a vegan diet by substituting the eggs with applesauce or a commercial egg replacer, and using vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. Make sure to use a plant-based milk alternative as well.

Can pandan cupcakes be frozen for later use?

Yes, pandan cupcakes can be frozen for later use. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely after baking, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. Cupcakes can be frozen for up to three months and remain fresh. Thaw the cupcakes at room temperature, or warm them in the oven gently before serving.

Is there a gluten-free version of pandan cupcakes?

Yes, you can make gluten-free pandan cupcakes by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. When choosing a gluten-free flour, opt for one that substitutes directly for regular flour on a 1:1 basis. Be sure to also check that all other ingredients used, like baking powder, are certified gluten-free.

What frosting pairs well with pandan cupcakes?

A light and creamy coconut frosting pairs exceptionally well with pandan cupcakes, enhancing the tropical flavor profile. Alternatively, a simple cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar can also complement the sweet pandan flavor nicely.