Cupcakes are the quintessential dessert that fits every celebration and mood. Their compact size and endless versatility make them perfect for sharing at birthdays, holidays, or just because you feel like indulging in a sweet treat.
With a multitude of flavors and creative decorating options, cupcakes offer a fun and customizable way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Cupcake Batter:
Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy removal and a neat presentation.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure they are evenly distributed, which helps with even rising during baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, around 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy texture.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated into the batter. After the eggs are well incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Start by adding a third of the flour mixture, then half of the milk, another third of the flour, the remaining milk, and finish with the last portion of the flour. Mix just until everything is combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
Bake the Cupcakes:
Fill the Liners: Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without spilling over.
Bake: Place the filled muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they are ready.
Cool: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid melting the frosting when applied.
Make the Frosting:
Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat until light and fluffy.
Blend in Vanilla and Cream: Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat the mixture on high speed for about 2-3 minutes until the frosting becomes silky and spreadable. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more cream; for a thicker frosting, add a bit more powdered sugar.
Color (Optional): If you want to add a pop of color, mix in a few drops of food coloring until you achieve the desired shade. Stir just enough to blend the color evenly.
Decorate the Cupcakes:
Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, you can frost them using a piping bag with your preferred tip or a simple spatula. Feel free to get creative with your designs!
Add Decorations: Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, candies, or any toppings of your choice to give the cupcakes a festive and personalized touch.
Cupcakes are more than just a dessert—they’re a canvas for creativity and a source of joy. Whether you're sticking to classic flavors or experimenting with new ones, these versatile little cakes are sure to be a hit with friends and family. So, Lykkers, next time you’re in the mood for a delightful treat, whip up a batch of cupcakes and let your imagination run wild with the decorations. Enjoy every bite!
