Why are cupcakes so so fun?!

I adore cupcakes, which is why I am happy see them EVERYWHERE! I have been busy baking a lot of fun cupcakes for birthdays, gatherings, summer and just because! There are just so many fun things that can be done with cupcakes for themed birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers and other occasions that can use a cute boost! Let’s just face it — a cupcake can do a world of wonders to make any party or gathering more memorable.

The above photo is of my most recent cupcake “adventure.” Champagne cupcakes with fresh Raspberry Buttercream Frosting. I have made buttercream before but never with a fruit in the mix. Not only was it easy and exciting, the result was delicious! (even my husband says it is his favorite cupcake frosting I have made to date!) So there you have it, ladies and gentleman, it is a winner! After making this frosting, I did a little research on buttercream (and probably still need to do a bit more) and how to work with it; but first, the recipe:

I followed my original recipe for buttercream that I received at my Wilton cake decorating class a couple years ago and threw some fresh raspberries in the mix.

1/2 c. Butter (softened)
1/2 c. Fresh Raspberries (washed and dried well)
1 tsp. Vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt
1 (16 oz.) bag of Powdered Sugar

Mix the first four ingredients until softened:

Gradually add the powdered sugar, scraping the bowl after every few additions, until smooth:

A few things that I didn’t know about buttercream:

• If made with butter (as in this recipe) instead of shortening — it is going to harden when refrigerated, so take it out about 30 minutes before you want to frost your cake or cupcakes (or if you have the cake/cupcakes refrigerated, take out 30 minutes before serving)
• You DO need to refrigerate buttercream and any dessert that uses it due to the fat-sugar ratio
• If you need softer buttercream, use shortening (but note it will not be as tasty, in my opinion)
• If it is going to be warm/ hot when serving it, keep it refrigerated in order for the frosting to keep it’s shape & not melt! Especially if using a lovely tip to frost your cupcakes :)

Wow, there were a lot of things I didn’t know about buttercream, and still don’t know. The next time I make it — hopefully soon — I will put some more time into researching it. Hope that this helps you for the time being! Below is my finished product at it’s finest…