Description
Create stunning Pastel Star Cupcakes that are perfect for celebrations or a delightful treat. These moist vanilla cupcakes topped with swirled pastel buttercream and star-shaped sprinkles are as visually enchanting as they are delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Sugar
- Large eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- Milk
For the Pastel Buttercream Frosting:
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
- Pastel food coloring (pink, blue, yellow, purple)
For Decoration:
- Star-shaped sprinkles
- Edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with sour cream and milk, until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
2. Make the Pastel Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; beat until light and fluffy.
- Divide frosting into four bowls, tint each with a pastel color, and mix well.
3. Decorate the Cupcakes:
- Fill a piping bag fitted with a star tip with layers of colored frosting.
- Pipe swirls onto cooled cupcakes.
- Garnish with star-shaped sprinkles and optional edible glitter.
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if needed.
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant pastels without affecting the frosting texture.
- Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw and frost before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
