Decorated Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

I've decided that I want to try baking cupcakes a lot and getting better on decorating. Therefore, there will probably be many cupcake recipes and decorating delights to come. Beware!

Decorated Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Let the cupcakes begin...

This recipe was found in Joy of Baking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Frosting/Decorating Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 60 minutes

Vanilla Cupcakes

Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

2/3 cup white sugar

3 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon (I used an orange.)

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup milk

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF

2. Line muffin tin with 12 liners

3. In bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy and light.

4. Add eggs (one at a time), beating well after each.

5. Add/Beat in vanilla extract.

6. In a second bowl, mix zest, flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly mixed.

7. Add dry mixture and milk to other mixture in three additions gradually until both are used up. 

8. Fill muffin tins about 3/4 full.

9. Bake for 17-20 minutes (or until a toothpick goes in clean)

10. Let cool for 10-15 minutes then frost and decorate.

*For decorations, I used: tootsie rolls, jolly ranchers, sprinkles, m&ms, and gummy fruit slices

11. Enjoy!

Frosting

Ingredients

2 cups confectioners sugar

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp milk or cream ( I used half & half.)

Assorted food colors (optional)

Directions

1. Cream butter until smooth.

2. Add vanilla extract.

3. Gradually beat in sugar.

4. Add milk and beat until light and fluffy.

5. Add food coloring, if desired.

6. Enjoy!