Mint Julep Cupcakes

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups

all-purpose flour

1 1/2 tsp

baking powder

1/4 tsp

fine salt

vanilla bean

2/3 cup

granulated sugar

1 1/2 sticks

unsalted butter, at room temperature

large eggs, at room temperature

1/4 cup

bourbon; plus 2 tablespoons more for brushing, optional

1/2 cup

milk

1 1/2 sticks

unsalted butter, at room temperature

2 cups

confectioners' sugar

fine salt

1 tsp

mint-flavored liqueur, such as creme de menthe

few drops pure peppermint extract

1 1/2 tbsp

half-and-half

Brown sanding sugar, for garnish

Fresh mint leaves, for garnish