Desserts

Cupcakes

⏱ 20 min🍳 15 min👤 4 pp★★☆☆☆

It’s not always the most expensive presents which turn out to be the most pleasant to receive, especially during a romantic moment between lovers. Do you know how to communicate your feelings to the person you love so much? Sometimes a spontaneous gesture such as making a surprise lunch or dinner is the best way to melt the heart of your soul mate. But in the end, whatever you do, don’t forget to make a special dessert such as these cupcakes. A ‘Valentine’s cupcake’, if prepared with care in the selection of flavours and fragrances, can be a wonderful marriage of sweetness and softness. You’re all set to be inspired by our recipe, following our step-by-step guide: all that remains is for you add your personal touch!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving

Protein
6g
Carbohydrates
62g
Fat
28g
Fiber
1g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Preparation time
15 minutes Cooking time
Serves 4 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Mix the ‘wet’ ingredients together until mixture is smooth, then add the flour and baking powder. Fill to three quarters the paper cups or cupcake moulds and bake for 10-15 minutes at 160°C. Prepare the icing with icing sugar, lemon juice and a drop of food colouring. Once cooked and cooled, decorate the cupcakes with the icing.

Tips
Do you love cupcakes but would like to try a different garnish? Try adding fresh cream while they are still warm from the oven.
Trivia
Why are these little desserts called ‘cupcakes’? It is possibly because the ingredients needed for their preparation were once measured with a cup – or, perhaps more likely, that they are simply cooked in little paper cups.

Step by step

Cupcakes
Cupcakes
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Vanilla Cupcakes with Lemon Frosting

Vanilla cupcakes with lemon frosting are a delicious and fragrant variation of this famous dessert. To prepare this recipe, start by mixing the wet ingredients such as sour cream, sunflower oil, and eggs until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. At this point, add the flour, baking powder, and vanilla powder, mixing well. After filling the cupcake molds three-quarters full, bake them at 160° for 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, decorate with a frosting made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a drop of food coloring. This variation is perfect for those who love the fresh and citrusy taste of lemon, adding a touch of originality to traditional cupcakes.

English Cupcakes with Colored Frosting

English cupcakes are a typical preparation from the United Kingdom, often served during celebrations and parties. The traditional recipe uses simple yet quality ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and butter. For this version, the frosting can be personalized with food coloring, making the cupcakes cheerful and vibrant, perfect for birthdays and special events. The preparation remains similar, starting with the mixing of wet and dry ingredients, but you can also experiment with different flavors, such as chocolate or fruit. English cupcakes are a versatile dessert that lends itself to many interpretations and regional variations, while always maintaining their sweetness and lightness.

Light Cupcakes with Whole Wheat Flour and Sugar-Free

For those looking for a lighter version of classic cupcakes, it is possible to prepare light cupcakes using whole wheat flour instead of white flour and replacing sugar with natural sweeteners. This preparation still maintains a pleasant flavor and a soft texture. Sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt to reduce fat content, while seed oil can be substituted with coconut oil. These light cupcakes are ideal for those following a more mindful diet, without giving up the pleasure of a homemade dessert. The frosting can also be made with healthier ingredients, creating a tasty and nutritious dessert.

Benefits of Cupcakes: A Dessert That Can Surprise

Cupcakes, although a dessert, can be prepared in ways that enhance their nutritional benefits. By using ingredients like whole wheat flour and lemon, you can create sweets rich in fiber and vitamin C. Whole wheat flour offers a greater amount of nutrients compared to white flour, contributing to healthy digestion. Sour cream, when used in moderation, also provides probiotics, beneficial for intestinal health. On average, a classic cupcake contains about 200-250 calories, but with light variations and the use of alternative ingredients, it is possible to significantly reduce calories while maintaining flavor. Thus, cupcakes should not only be seen as a guilty pleasure, but can be a dessert to enjoy with more awareness.

How to Store Cupcakes? Can They Be Frozen?

Cupcakes can be stored simply and conveniently. After preparation, it is advisable to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store them longer, you can freeze them. To do this, ensure they are completely cooled and, if possible, unfrosted. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe food bag. In this way, they can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you want to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature and, if you prefer, add fresh frosting before serving. This storage method allows you to always have a ready dessert for any occasion.