Festive Vanilla Cupcakes

Ingredients:

For Cupcakes

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk

For Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Food coloring (optional)

Directions:

For Cupcakes

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
• In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3^rd full.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean.
• Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.

For Buttercream Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
• Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low until combined.
• Add vanilla extract, salt, and a tablespoon of cream. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
• If the frosting is too thick, add more cream (1 tablespoon at a time). If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar.
• Add food coloring and mix until fully incorporated.
• Frost the cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or knife.
• Enjoy your fluffy cupcakes with rich buttercream frosting!