Table of Information
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40-45 minutes |
| Servings | 12 cupcakes |
Introduction
Cupcakes are a delightful and versatile dessert that are perfect for any occasion. These individual-sized cakes can be customized with a variety of flavors, frostings, and decorations, making them a favorite for both children and adults.
Ingredients
- For the Cupcakes:
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 1/2 cups
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Baking Powder – 1 1/2 tsp
- Salt – 1/2 tsp
- Milk – 1/2 cup
- Vegetable Oil – 1/2 cup
- Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
- Eggs – 2
- For the Frosting:
- Butter – 1/2 cup (softened)
- Powdered Sugar – 2 cups
- Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
- Milk – 2-3 tbsp
Directions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add milk, oil, vanilla extract, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Beat until smooth.
4. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Frost: Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. For the frosting, beat all ingredients until smooth and fluffy. Pipe or spread onto the cupcakes.
Important Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Even Filling: Use an ice cream scoop for evenly sized cupcakes.
- Cool Completely: Ensure the cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Cupcakes Variations
- Chocolate Cupcakes: Add cocoa powder to the batter.
- Red Velvet Cupcakes: Include cocoa powder and red food coloring, and use cream cheese frosting.
- Lemon Cupcakes: Add lemon zest to the batter and use lemon buttercream frosting.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Generally, cupcakes are not reheated, especially if frosted.
How to Reheat Cupcakes
- Avoid Reheating Frosted Cupcakes: The frosting may melt and ruin the texture.
Pros and Cons of Cupcakes
- Pros:
- Portion Control: Individual servings make portion control easier.
- Customizable: Can be easily adapted with different flavors and decorations.
- Convenience: Easy to serve and no need for cutting.
- Cons:
- Sugar Content: High in sugar, especially with frosting.
- Time-Consuming Decoration: Decorating cupcakes can be time-consuming, especially with intricate designs.
- Storage Space: Storing frosted cupcakes without damaging them can be challenging.