Mini Cupcakes
Mini cupcakes are the ultimate treat for any celebration or casual gathering. Their small size makes them perfect for portion control while still satisfying your sweet tooth. With a variety of flavors and decorations, these little delights are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Let’s dive into creating these adorable and delicious mini cupcakes!
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This mini cupcakes recipe yields approximately 24 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value of one mini cupcake (approximately 30g) is as follows: Calories: 100, Total Fat: 4g, Carbohydrates: 15g, Protein: 1g, Sugar: 8g. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini cupcake pan with paper liners. 2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt together. 3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 5. Stir in vanilla extract. 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. 7. Fill each mini cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. 8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. 9. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. 10. Once cool, frost with your favorite icing and decorate as desired. 
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make these mini cupcakes healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also substitute unsweetened applesauce for half the butter to reduce fat content. Additionally, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can add a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
Mini cupcakes can be served individually on a platter or as part of a dessert table. Pair them with a variety of beverages such as coffee, tea, or flavored sparkling water to complement their sweetness.
Storage and Reheating
To store mini cupcakes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy!
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can result in dense cupcakes.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture and taste.
- Opening the oven door too soon can cause cupcakes to collapse.
- Using stale baking powder can lead to poor rising.
- Not cooling cupcakes before frosting can cause melting icing.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for even batter distribution.
- Experiment with different flavors of extracts.
- Add sprinkles to the batter for a fun surprise.
- Let cupcakes cool completely before decorating.
FAQs
Can I make mini cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, mini cupcakes can be baked a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them on the day of serving for best results.
What is the best frosting for mini cupcakes?
Buttercream frosting is a classic choice, but cream cheese or whipped cream frostings also work wonderfully. You can even try ganache for a decadent touch.
How do I know when the mini cupcakes are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend in the same measurements for delicious gluten-free mini cupcakes.
How long do mini cupcakes last?
When stored properly, mini cupcakes can last 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to keep them airtight.
Conclusion
Mini cupcakes are a fun and versatile dessert option that can be customized to suit any occasion. With endless flavor combinations and easy preparation, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a birthday, wedding, or casual gathering, these delightful treats will bring joy to every table.
Mini Cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini cupcake pan with paper liners.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk.
- Fill each mini cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cool, frost with your favorite icing and decorate as desired.