Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these delightful Flag Cupcakes topped with luscious Vanilla Buttercream! Perfect for any patriotic celebration or festive gathering, these cupcakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With their vibrant red and blue sprinkles and soft, fluffy texture, they’re bound to steal the spotlight at your next event. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a stunning dessert that will have your guests asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of baking these irresistible Flag Cupcakes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vanilla buttercream frosting
- Red and blue sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with patriotic red, white, and blue cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, blending thoroughly.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Using an ice cream scoop or large spoon, divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, prepare vanilla buttercream frosting by beating softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy.
- Pipe or spread the vanilla buttercream generously onto each cupcake using a piping bag or offset spatula.
- Decorate the frosted cupcakes with red and blue sprinkles to create a festive flag-inspired design.
- Serve and enjoy your patriotic Flag Cupcakes at room temperature.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Even Baking: Use an ice cream scoop to ensure even distribution of batter in the cupcake liners for uniform baking.
- Cool Completely: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape.
- Frosting Fun: Get creative with your frosting technique! Use different piping tips to create fun designs on your cupcakes.
- Sprinkle with Style: Add the red and blue sprinkles right after frosting to ensure they stick well and maintain their vibrant colors.
- Storage: Keep your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
