Did someone say alcohol and cupcakes? Two of my favorite words and I’m not joking. If you know me or have been around me, you’ve probably noticed that I’m quite the social drinker and my kitchen isn’t complete without something sweet in the fridge and/or pantry. I love a great drink and my sweet tooth is out of control. So when the ladies at Hapa Cupcakes invited me out to try their alcohol infused cupcakes, I just couldn’t say no.
The alcohol infused goodness started out in 2011 by two childhood best friends (and absolute sweethearts) – Hanayo and Akemi. The word “Hapa” in their business means “of mixed race with partial roots in Asia.” Their background and the sweetness they exhibit is prominent in their cupcakes. The unique flavors are fun, full of creative genius, and of course – my favorite part – plenty of alcohol.
The cupcake magic takes place in an industrial area of Anaheim but don’t let that fool you. Focus instead on the cupcakes and you’ll be good. When I arrived, I was greeted by my bubbly hostesses and served up my very first hot sundae cupcakes. Ice cream has been my go-to treat since childhood all thanks to my Dad who would let me indulge in this pleasure after every dentist appointment. Combined with an alcohol infused cupcake, it’s even better.
My hot sundae cupcake featured their “peel my banana” cupcake. I immediately noticed that the cupcake was fluffy and moist with a balanced flavor of rum and bananas combined with ice cream, whipped cream, and cinnamon sugar. I couldn’t stop eating this treat and had to apologize several times for conversating with my mouth open. I usually have better manners than that but I just couldn’t help myself!
But enough nostalgia, let’s get on with the cupcakes! I was given four cupcakes to try out (two classic, two alcohol infused).
I started my cupcake journey with the vanilla raspberry cupcake. It’s not listed on their website so I’m guessing this is a secret menu item but I could be wrong. I love raspberries so I was excited to try this one. Unfortunately due to the heat, packaging, or whatever it may be, the raspberry on top of my cupcake kinda fizzled out and ended up at the bottom of my tray and I was only left with the moist vanilla cake and the frosting (which, might I add, is delightful and not too sugary sweet). This cupcake could use a little more raspberry to be a true raspberry cupcake but overall I enjoyed it.
Next, I indulged myself with an alcohol infused cupcake. I felt like a sinner taking this one into work with me but I just couldn’t help myself. I think alcohol infused goodness makes the day go faster. Appropriately titled “will you remember me in the morning?,” it was great for a mid morning snack. This cupcake is a mix of Madagascar vanilla and Kahlua batter with bits of cinnamon streusel, and topped with a cream cheese frosting. Cinnamon, vanilla, Kahlua – perfect morning indulgence. It reminded me of a modified cinnamon bun – with alcohol. We need more of these in the world.
When I saw a red velvet in the box, I was really curious. There are only a few red velvets that I like because unfortunately most of them taste like boxed cake or they’re either too dense and devoid of any flavor. The Red Velvet Stiletto lived up to my expectations with its adorable candy heart. I was delighted by the moist consistency of the cupcakes I’d tried so far and excited that the pattern was continuing and that the cupcakes continued to taste good after a few days. That’s quality folks.
Last, but certainly not least, is a chocolate whiskey cupcake. This one reminded me of my beloved Reese’s Peanut Butter cups but it’s actually a Valrhona chocolate whiskey cake with peanut butter cream cheese frosting. I took this one to work also as a late afternoon snack and enjoyed it with a dark cup of coffee. This cupcake would be perfect of kid’s parties, a grown up girl’s night out, or just a late night indulgence. It’s a sexy and rich cupcake. Full of life and flavor.
Are you salivating yet? Wanna get some?? I know I am and I just indulged! I’m already eyeing my next picks – geisha girl, strawberries and champagne, and more of the peel my banana, and chocolate whiskey please! If you’re as excited as I am, here’s your chance to try out Hapa Cupcakes and check them out for yourself by entering my giveaway below for either a four pack of cupcakes or a hot sundae cupcake. Woohoo! Ready, set, go and let the alcohol infused madness begin!
