Soft and Sweet Pastel Star Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Delightful pastel star cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Forms the soft base of your cupcakes.
- 1.5 tsp baking powder Leavening agent for fluffiness.
- 0.5 tsp baking soda Enhances fluffiness.
- 0.25 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter (room temperature) Creates a rich texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Gives sweetness.
- 2 large eggs Binds ingredients.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses warm flavor.
- 0.5 cups whole milk Adds moisture.
- 0.5 cups sour cream Ensures tenderness.
For the Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) Base for creamy frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar Adds sweetness and stability.
- 2-3 tbsp milk Adjusts the frosting consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds flavor.
- 1 set Food coloring (pastel colors) For beautiful star decorations.
Instructions
Preparation of Cupcakes
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the milk and sour cream mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool.
Preparation of Buttercream Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Divide frosting into bowls and color with food coloring.
- Frost cupcakes with a piping bag and star tip.
- Top with sprinkles or edible glitter.
Notes
Consider chilling the frosting before piping to help stabilize it. Variations include adding lemon zest or using flavored yogurt.