THE PERFECT VANILLA CUPCAKE RECIPE

I am forever searching for the perfect vanilla cupcake recipe. Earlier this year I came across this one via the Vanilla Cupcake Boutique Party Supply online store and have been using it ever since. It is simple and easy to follow, and my cupcakes turn out perfectly every time.

Vanilla Cupcakes  125g butter, softened ½ cup, plus 2 tablespoons of caster sugar ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract 2 large eggs, at room temperature 1 cup self-raising flour (or 1 cup standard flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder) 3 tablespoons milk, warmed for ten seconds in microwave Buttercream Icing 125g butter, softened 3 cups icing sugar, sifted ½ teaspoon vanilla essence ¼ cup milk warmed for ten seconds in microwave Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.   Line a 12 hole muffin pan with cupcake cases. Place the butter, sugar, vanilla, eggs and flour into a food processor  (or use an electric handheld mixer, it works just as well) and pulse for 10-15 seconds.   Pour in the warmed milk and pulse again till combined. Spoon the mixture evenly into the cases filling each 3/4 full.   Bake for 17 minutes or until skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. To make buttercream icing, cream the butter with an electric mixer until very pale,  about 2-3 minutes.   Using low speed, mix in the icing sugar alternatively with the milk and vanilla.   Continue to beat until light and fluffy. Pipe or swirl the buttercream icing onto cooled cupcakes. Makes 12. TIP Use a little food colouring to make pretty pastel colours and sprinkle with  coloured sugar, sprinkles or sliver balls.

Emma x Image credit: Maegan McDowell - taken of the cupcakes my amazing bridesmaids made for my wedding.