Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with these delightful cupcakes that are as charming as they are delicious. These cupcakes are adorned with creamy swirls of frosting and heart-shaped decorations, making them the perfect treat for a romantic occasion or festive gathering. With vibrant pink and red hues, they are easy to bake and even easier to customize for a sweet expression of affection.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate twist)
Red or pink food coloring (optional)
For the Frosting:
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Red or pink food coloring
For Decorations:
Heart-shaped candies
Valentine’s Day-themed sprinkles
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder (if using).
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. If desired, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring for a festive touch.
Fill Liners: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Frosting: Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. Add food coloring for a pink or red hue.
Decorate: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the frosting on top. Garnish with heart-shaped candies and sprinkles.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Baking Pro Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
Use Gel Food Coloring: For vibrant colors without altering the consistency, use gel-based food coloring.
Test for Doneness: Check cupcakes a minute or two before the timer ends to prevent overbaking.
These simple Valentine’s Day cupcakes are a wonderful way to share the love this holiday. Whether you’re baking for your partner, family, or friends, these customizable treats are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Feel free to get creative with decorations or even use this recipe as inspiration for other Valentine’s Day desserts.