BITES OF JOY

Ingredients:

For the cupcakes:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ cup sour cream (for moisture)

For the frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: food coloring for a fun twist

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (around 3-4 minutes).
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not over-mix).

5. Bake the Cupcakes:

• Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
• Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Prepare the Frosting:

• In a bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Add vanilla extract, salt, and milk (or heavy cream) to achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency.
• If desired, add food coloring and mix well to create your desired color.

7. Frost and Decorate:

• Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, use a piping bag or an offset spatula to frost each cupcake with the prepared frosting.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle with colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or small decorations.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

• These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday, a special celebration, or just because you’re craving a sweet treat.