If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the delicate sweetness and charm of springtime, the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cupcakes blend a moist, tender crumb infused with cherry extract and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and cherries, bringing a burst of floral-inspired flavor to every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade indulgence, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in making your Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe sing with flavor and texture. From the creamy butter that ensures moisture to the cherry extract that infuses that signature taste, every component matters.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for light and fluffy cupcakes, perfectly holding all the flavors together.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Gives the cupcakes the rise they need to be soft and airy.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping achieve a tender crumb.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and boost the cupcake’s fluffiness and stability.
- ½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk): Adds moisture and slight tang, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 tsp cherry extract: The star flavor, lending that unmistakable cherry aroma and taste.
- 8 oz cream cheese (for frosting): Creates a rich, tangy frosting that complements the cherry notes perfectly.
- Fresh or maraschino cherries (for topping): A charming touch that adds visual appeal and fruity bursts on top.
How to Make Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking from the get-go. Line a cupcake pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless. Having these ready sets the stage for perfectly shaped cupcakes.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sugar. Pre-mixing these dry elements ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the batter, guaranteeing uniform rise and consistency.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Beat your softened unsalted butter until it turns a creamy, smooth texture. Gradually add sugar to it, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps trap air, giving your cupcakes a tender crumb and delightful lift.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Cherry Extract
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully absorbed before adding the next. Stir in the cherry extract, which will infuse the batter with that quintessential cherry blossom essence you’re craving.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and milk to the wet butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry. Mix gently until just combined to keep the batter light and airy, avoiding overmixing that can make cupcakes dense.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full to leave room for your cupcakes to rise without spilling over. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the tops turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell at this stage is just irresistible!
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Once cooled completely, frost the cupcakes generously with your smooth cream cheese frosting. Top each with a fresh or maraschino cherry for that picture-perfect finishing touch that highlights the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe’s special charm.
How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic cherry on top, try adding delicate edible flower petals like pink sakura or violets for a whimsical spring look. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cherry syrup can also elevate presentation and add a burst of extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a hot cup of green tea or a fruity sparkling lemonade to balance their sweet richness. Light salads or fresh fruit platters complement the flavors well if you’re serving at a brunch or garden party.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe on a tiered dessert stand for elegant gatherings, or serve each cupcake in its own pretty paper flower pot for a fun twist. Adding personalized tags or flags can turn these treats into memorable party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. If your kitchen is warm, keeping them refrigerated is best, but bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before frosting to enjoy that just-baked taste anytime.
Reheating
To refresh refrigerated or thawed cupcakes, warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This revives softness and enhances the flavors of your Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cherry extract with fresh cherries?
Fresh cherries add wonderful flavor and texture, but cherry extract provides a more concentrated and consistent cherry taste that truly defines the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe. You could add chopped fresh cherries for extra bursts, but still include the extract for the signature flavor.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter to make a luscious frosting that complements the cupcakes. It will still taste delicious and keep the spirit of the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe intact.
How can I make the cupcakes extra moist?
Using buttermilk instead of whole milk, ensuring the butter is softened properly before creaming, and avoiding overmixing the batter will all help keep your cupcakes wonderfully moist and tender.
Can I use a different frosting instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the cherry flavor, you can experiment with whipped vanilla buttercream or a light mascarpone frosting for a different but equally delightful finish.
What is the best way to transport these cupcakes?
Use a sturdy cupcake carrier or box with inserts to prevent shifting. Make sure the frosting is firm (chill a little before traveling) to avoid smudging, ensuring your Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe arrives looking as beautiful as when you baked them.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe enough for anyone wanting a charming, flavorful baking project that feels both special and approachable. These cupcakes bring joy to the table with their delicate cherry essence and creamy frosting, making them a sure hit with everyone. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fill your home with irresistible aromas and smiles.
Print
Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Cherry Blossom Cupcakes, a perfect balance of fluffy vanilla cake infused with cherry extract and topped with smooth cream cheese frosting and fresh or maraschino cherries. Ideal for spring gatherings or any special occasion, these cupcakes offer a light, fruity twist on classic favorites.
Ingredients
Cupcake Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 2 tsp cherry extract
Frosting and Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Fresh or maraschino cherries (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to ensure easy removal and presentation.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sugar thoroughly to combine and aerate.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a good texture for the cupcakes.
- Add Eggs and Cherry Extract: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the cherry extract to infuse the batter with a delicate cherry flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the whole milk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to keep the batter light and avoid overmixing.
- Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, spread or pipe the softened cream cheese frosting over each cupcake and garnish with fresh or maraschino cherries for a beautiful finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Use fresh cherries if available for a more natural flavor; maraschino cherries add a sweeter, colorful touch.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute with plant-based milk and cream cheese.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator if not served immediately to keep frosting fresh.
