Classic White Cupcakes with Cherry Vanilla Buttercream

White Cupcake with Cherry Vanilla Frosting

I made these cupcakes for the wedding of two dear friends. They wanted just a simple white cupcake with white frosting. Always a classic, and perfect for the wedding reception. When it came time to make the frosting, I went with a simple vanilla buttercream, but I wanted to make it special for them. I decided to add cherry flavoring.

Pure cherry flavoring is clear, so the frosting was not going to turn pink. The combination of the vanilla and cherry was just the right touch. The frosting has a really nice flavor and fluffy texture, without being too sweet.

Well, I have to get ready for the wedding. Here are the recipes for both the cupcakes and the frosting.

Classic White (Vanilla)  Cupcakes

1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup milk
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a muffin pan with 12paper liners. In a medium bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Combine flour and baking powder, add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Finally stir in the milk until batter is smooth. Pour or spoon batter into the prepared pan. Bake 20 to 25 minutes. Cupcakes are done when they springs back to the touch. Makes 12.

Cherry Vanilla Butter Cream

1/3 cup butter

4 ½ c. sifted confectioners’ sugar

¼ c. milk or half and half

1 t. vanilla extract

1 t. pure cherry flavoring

In a bowl beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups of the confectioners’ sugar, beating well. Slowly beat in the 1/4 milk and flavorings. Slowly beat in remaining sugar. Beat in additional milk, if needed, to make of spreading consistency.