Basic Vanilla Cupcakes
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat 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, alternating with milk, and mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let cool before decorating with frosting and sprinkles.
Healthy Banana Muffins
Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas (mashed)
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin or use liners.
In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, honey, melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Stir until combined, then divide the batter evenly into muffin cups.
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to cool and enjoy!
Fun Cupcake Decorating Ideas:
Sprinkle Explosion: Let kids add their favorite colorful sprinkles on top.
Animal Faces: Use chocolate chips, fruit, and candy to create animal faces.
Rainbow Swirls: Mix different food colors into frosting for a bright effect.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle it over the cupcakes.
Tips for Baking with Kids:
Let kids help with measuring, mixing, and decorating.
Use silicone muffin cups for easy removal and fun colors.
Teach safety tips like handling hot trays with oven mitts.
Make it a themed baking day with special toppings and shapes.
Baking muffins and cupcakes with kids is a fantastic way to create lasting memories while enjoying delicious homemade treats. Have fun and happy baking!