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Vanilla Cupcakes with Colorful Icing and Sprinkles Recipe

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4.6 from 82 reviews

These classic vanilla cupcakes are light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. Topped with colorful, creamy buttercream icing and sprinkles, they offer a delightful balance of simple flavors and fun decorations that kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

  • ¼ cup (55g) softened butter
  • ¼ cup (55g) sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (55g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp milk

For the Icing:

  • ⅓ cup softened butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 drop food gel coloring (per bowl)
  • ¼ cup sprinkles
  • 1 tsp milk (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare muffin tin: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with cupcake cases to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for tender cupcakes.
  3. Add egg and vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, ensuring a smooth batter base.
  4. Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet mixture, folding gently to avoid overmixing and keep the cupcakes tender.
  5. Add milk: Stir in the milk to loosen the batter for a smooth consistency ready to bake.
  6. Fill muffin cups and bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about halfway. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool cupcakes: Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
  8. Prepare the icing: Beat softened butter until creamy and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add a splash of milk if the icing is too thick for piping.
  9. Color the icing: Divide the icing into three separate bowls, adding one drop of different food gel coloring to each, mixing until evenly colored.
  10. Pipe the icing: Transfer each colored icing into piping bags fitted with star nozzles, then pipe onto cooled cupcakes in swirl patterns for a vibrant, festive look.
  11. Add sprinkles: Finish decorating by sprinkling your favorite sprinkles on top for extra texture and color.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and smoother icing.
  • Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
  • Use gel food coloring instead of liquid to avoid thinning the icing consistency.
  • Allow cupcakes to cool completely before icing to prevent melting and sliding of frosting.
  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best freshness.

Find it online: https://alinacooks.com/vanilla-cupcakes-with-colorful-icing-and-sprinkles-recipe/