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
Scale
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.
