Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional)
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
For the Buttercream Frosting:
3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix 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 softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract, if using.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Pour in the milk and mix until smooth. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Buttercream Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Beat on high speed for 3 minutes, until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more cream or sugar, if needed.
- Frost and Decorate:
Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them with the buttercream using a piping bag or a spatula. Add sprinkles or any other decorations you like.
Enjoy.