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Rainbow Cupcakes

Delightful and colorful cupcakes perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day, featuring vibrant layers of cake and sweet buttercream frosting.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake ingredients

  • 1.5 cups All-purpose flour Provides structure
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness
  • 0.5 cups Unsalted butter (softened) For moisture
  • 2 large Eggs Provides structure
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances flavor
  • 0.5 cups Milk For moisture
  • 2 tsp Baking powder Acts as leavening agent
  • 0.5 tsp Salt Enhances flavor
  • varies Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple) For vibrant layers

Frosting and decoration

  • 1 cup Buttercream frosting Store-bought or homemade for texture
  • as needed Gold sprinkles For visual appeal

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cupcake pan with liners.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for proper incorporation.
  • Stir in vanilla extract and milk until fully combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients.

Coloring and Baking

  • Divide the batter into separate bowls and dye each portion with different food coloring.
  • Spoon dollops of colored batter into each cupcake liner, filling about 2/3 full.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting and Finishing Touches

  • Once cooled, frost the tops of the cupcakes with buttercream frosting.
  • Sprinkle gold sprinkles on top for a festive decoration.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for a week. Can freeze for up to 3 months.
Keyword Baking, Colorful Cupcakes, Festive Treats, Rainbow Cupcakes, St. Patrick's Day