These Peach Bellini Cupcakes are a delightful twist on a classic cocktail, transformed into an elegant dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. The light and fluffy champagne-infused cupcakes are topped with a silky peach buttercream that captures the sweet essence of ripe summer peaches. Each bite is balanced with just the right touch of sparkle and fruitiness, reminiscent of sipping a cool Peach Bellini on a sunny afternoon.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, bridal shower, or garden party, these cupcakes will steal the spotlight. They’re as beautiful as they are delicious—adorned with a peach slice and dusted with sugar for a festive finish. Your guests will be enchanted by their flavor and charm, making this recipe a must-have for your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Peach Bellini Cupcakes Recipe

Elegant Flavor Profile: Combines the effervescence of champagne with the luscious taste of peaches.
Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for special occasions like birthdays, bridal showers, or New Year’s Eve.
Beautiful Presentation: The peach garnish and sugared top give them a professional bakery look.
Versatile: You can adapt the recipe for mini cupcakes or even a layered cake.
Crowd-Pleaser: Light, fruity, and not overly sweet—guests of all ages will enjoy them.
Fun Baking Project: A creative way to bring a beloved cocktail to the dessert table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start baking these delightful Peach Bellini Cupcakes, it’s essential to gather the right tools and understand their purpose. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures your cupcakes turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing Bowls
Needed for combining dry and wet ingredients separately, which helps in achieving a light batter.
Electric Mixer (Hand or Stand Mixer)
Critical for creaming butter and sugar and whipping the peach buttercream to a fluffy consistency.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision matters in baking, so accurate measurements are key to balance flavors and texture.
Cupcake Pan
Use a standard 12-cup muffin pan to bake evenly shaped cupcakes.
Cupcake Liners
Prevent sticking and make it easier to serve and store the cupcakes.
Ice Cream Scoop or Batter Dispenser
For evenly portioning the batter into cupcake liners—ensures uniform baking.
Piping Bag with Star Tip
Creates beautifully swirled peach buttercream on top of each cupcake.
Offset Spatula
Handy for smoothing the frosting if you prefer a more rustic look.
Sharp Knife
Used to slice fresh peaches for garnish.

Preparation Tips

Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature
Butter, eggs, and champagne should be at room temperature for better emulsion and even mixing.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cupcakes light and tender.
Use Good Quality Champagne or Sparkling Wine
The flavor of the champagne will subtly infuse the cupcakes, so choose one you enjoy drinking.
Strain Peach Puree for the Frosting
For a silky buttercream, strain peach puree to remove any pulp or fibers.
Chill the Buttercream Briefly if Needed
If your buttercream feels too soft after whipping, chill it for a few minutes, then re-whip before piping.
Decorate Just Before Serving
Fresh peach slices can release juices over time, so garnish close to serving to maintain their beauty and texture.

Ingredients for This Peach Bellini Cupcakes Recipe

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
Provides the structure for the cupcakes.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
¼ teaspoon salt
Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
Adds richness and tenderness to the crumb.
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
Sweetens and helps create a tender texture.
2 large eggs
Bind ingredients and contribute to structure and richness.
½ cup champagne or sparkling wine
Infuses the cupcakes with that signature Bellini fizz.
¼ cup whole milk
Adds moisture for a soft, tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Rounds out the flavor of the cupcakes.
½ cup peach puree (fresh or canned peaches blended smooth)
Brings in the fruity, peachy essence.

For the Peach Buttercream

1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
Base of the buttercream—smooth and creamy.
3–4 cups (360–480 g) powdered sugar, sifted
Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
3–4 tablespoons peach puree
Flavors and lightly colors the buttercream.
1–2 tablespoons champagne or sparkling wine
Adds a subtle sparkle and helps adjust the consistency.
Pinch of salt
Balances sweetness and enhances peach flavor.

For Garnish

Fresh peach slices
For a beautiful and flavorful topping.
Candied peach or cherry (optional)
Adds color and a fun touch.
Sparkling sugar or granulated sugar
Creates a shimmering, festive finish.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake liners. This ensures the cupcakes bake evenly and release easily from the pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. This dry blend will be incorporated gradually into the wet ingredients for an even batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step is essential for creating a tender cupcake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Champagne, Milk, and Peach Puree

In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the champagne, milk, vanilla extract, and peach puree. Stir gently.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry

With the mixer on low, alternately add the dry ingredients and the champagne mixture to the butter mixture—starting and ending with the dry ingredients (dry → wet → dry → wet → dry). Mix only until just combined to keep the batter light.

Step 7: Fill and Bake

Using an ice cream scoop or batter dispenser, fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Peach Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy and smooth (about 2–3 minutes). Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low at first, then on high.

Add the peach puree, champagne, and salt, and beat until light and fluffy. If needed, add more peach puree or powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

Once cupcakes are completely cool, transfer the buttercream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe generous swirls of frosting onto each cupcake.

Garnish with a fresh peach slice, an optional candied peach or cherry, and a sprinkle of sparkling sugar.

Notes

Peach Puree Options
Fresh ripe peaches give the best flavor, but you can also use high-quality canned peaches or frozen (thawed) peaches. If using canned, opt for peaches packed in juice, not syrup.
Champagne Substitutes
Any sparkling wine will work—Prosecco, Cava, or even non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice for a kid-friendly version.
Adjusting Sweetness
If your peaches are very sweet, you can slightly reduce the sugar in the frosting to balance the flavors.
Batch Size
This recipe makes 12 standard cupcakes, but it can be doubled for a larger crowd, or halved for a smaller gathering.
Buttercream Consistency
If the buttercream feels too soft, chill it briefly, then re-whip. If it’s too stiff, add a splash of champagne to loosen it.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overmixing the Batter
This is a common baking mistake. Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated—overmixing can lead to dense, tough cupcakes.
Cold Butter or Eggs
Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients won’t blend properly and can affect the cupcake texture.
Overfilling the Liners
Fill cupcake liners no more than 2/3 full. Overfilled liners can cause cupcakes to overflow and bake unevenly.
Skipping the Toothpick Test
Ovens can vary—use the toothpick test to ensure the cupcakes are fully baked before removing them from the oven.
Frosting Warm Cupcakes
Never frost warm cupcakes! The buttercream will melt. Always let cupcakes cool completely before decorating.
Watery Peach Puree
If your peach puree is too watery, strain it slightly before adding to the buttercream to maintain a thick, fluffy consistency.

What to Serve With Peach Bellini Cupcakes

Pairing your Peach Bellini Cupcakes with complementary flavors and drinks will elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, afternoon tea, or celebration, here are some inspired ideas:

8 Recommendations

1. Fresh Peach Bellinis

Naturally, serve these cupcakes alongside their namesake cocktail—peach puree mixed with chilled Prosecco or champagne.

2. Sparkling Rosé

A glass of sparkling rosé offers fruity, floral notes that complement the peach flavors perfectly.

3. Iced Peach Tea

For a non-alcoholic option, iced peach tea with fresh mint is a refreshing pairing.

4. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream next to your cupcake creates a decadent dessert plate.

5. Brunch Favorites

Serve alongside light brunch fare such as quiches, fruit salads, or smoked salmon tartines for a beautiful spread.

6. Macarons

Peach, vanilla, or champagne-flavored macarons make an elegant, bite-sized pairing on a dessert tray.

7. Fruit Platter with Berries and Stone Fruits

A platter of ripe berries, nectarines, and peaches adds color and freshness to the table.

8. White Chocolate Truffles

Delicate white chocolate truffles enhance the fruity, sweet notes of the cupcakes.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Peach Bellini Cupcakes tasting fresh and delightful, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature
If unfrosted, cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerated
Once frosted, store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring them to room temperature about 30 minutes before serving to restore their soft texture.
Freezing
The cupcakes (without frosting) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature. Prepare fresh buttercream and frost before serving for the best results.

Estimated Nutrition

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Per 1 Frosted Cupcake (based on 12 servings):

Calories: ~350 kcal
Total Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sodium: 120 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42 g
Dietary Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 30 g
Protein: 3 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Peach Bellini Cupcakes without alcohol?

Yes! Substitute the champagne with sparkling white grape juice or club soda. The cupcakes will still have a delightful light texture.

2. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just be sure to choose canned peaches packed in juice, not syrup. Drain them well before pureeing.

3. How far in advance can I make these cupcakes?

You can bake the cupcakes up to 2 days in advance and store them unfrosted at room temperature. Frost on the day of serving for best results.

4. Can I freeze frosted cupcakes?

It’s possible, but the fresh peach garnish may not freeze well. If freezing frosted cupcakes, skip the garnish and add it after thawing.

5. What’s the best champagne to use?

Any champagne or sparkling wine you enjoy drinking will work. Prosecco and Cava are both excellent options.

6. Can I make mini cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes! Use mini cupcake liners and bake for 10–12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Why is my buttercream too soft?

If the butter was too warm or the peach puree too watery, your buttercream might soften. Chill it for a few minutes, then re-whip.

8. Can I add peach liqueur to the buttercream?

Definitely! Add 1–2 teaspoons of peach liqueur to the buttercream for an extra layer of flavor. Adjust consistency with powdered sugar if needed.

Conclusion

Peach Bellini Cupcakes bring a playful, elegant touch to any occasion. The combination of fluffy champagne-infused cake and luscious peach buttercream creates a dessert that’s both sophisticated and fun. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

With their gorgeous presentation and irresistible flavor, they’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy every peachy, bubbly bite!