Description
Delight in these Cherry Blossom Cupcakes, a charming treat infused with cherry extract and topped with creamy frosting and fresh cherries. Perfect for springtime celebrations or any occasion that calls for a burst of floral sweetness.
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 & Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Fresh or maraschino cherries, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to prepare for baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add sugar and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Extract: Mix in eggs one at a time ensuring each is fully incorporated before the next, then stir in the cherry extract for flavor.
- Combine Batter: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Fill & Bake: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool & Frost: Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack. Spread cream cheese frosting on top and garnish with fresh or maraschino cherries as a finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easiest creaming.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Use fresh milk for best taste; buttermilk adds a slight tang.
- Chilling the cream cheese before frosting helps prevent it from softening too much.
- Cherries can be swapped out for any fruit topping or sprinkles for variety.
