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Cupcakes are delightful little treats that combine the best of both worlds between cakes and cookies. Known for their cute size and versatility in flavors, they make any occasion special—from birthdays to simple afternoon snacks. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a single cupcake as a personal treat. Cupcakes can be customized with various frostings and decorations, making them an ideal canvas for creativity.
Basic Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the cupcakes:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup (80ml) whole milk, room temperature
- For the frosting:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined after each addition.
Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and gradually add heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Decorate: Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with your choice of piping tip and decorate as desired. Enjoy!
These basic vanilla cupcakes can be customized in countless ways—add cocoa powder for chocolate cupcakes, lemon zest for a citrus twist, or mix in berries for a fruity flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Text model: phi4
Image model: Ultrium
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