Save These delightful cupcakes feature a moist vanilla base topped with silky pink buttercream frosting. The tender crumb comes from perfectly creamed butter and sugar, while the fluffy frosting adds a celebratory touch with its dreamy pastel hue. Ideal for baby showers, these handheld treats can be decorated with edible pearls, sprinkles, or themed toppers for a personalized finish. The straightforward method comes together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute celebration planning.
The moment I found out my best friend was expecting a girl, I started testing pink buttercream recipes in my kitchen. My countertops looked like a explosion of rose and coral shades for weeks. These particular cupcakes emerged from a Sunday afternoon experiment where everything finally went right.
I made three dozen of these for my sister-in-laws shower last spring. My daughter stood on a chair beside me, carefully placing each pearl while I piped frosting. We ended up with more frosting on our faces than the cupcakes, but nobody minded.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the cupcake tender
- Baking powder and baking soda: Work together for the perfect rise
- Unsalted butter: Room temperature butter creams beautifully with sugar for a light texture
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create that tender crumb we love
- Large eggs: Must be room temperature to emulsify properly
- Pure vanilla extract: Use the good stuff, it makes all the difference
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter
- Unsalted butter for frosting: The foundation of silky buttercream
- Powdered sugar: Sifting prevents lumps in your frosting
- Pink food coloring: Gel coloring gives the most vibrant shade without thinning the frosting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Set it to 350°F and line your muffin tin with pretty liners
- Whisk the dry ingredients:
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl
- Cream the butter and sugar:
- Beat them together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes
- Add the eggs and vanilla:
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then mix in vanilla
- Combine wet and dry:
- Mix in half the dry ingredients, then the milk, then remaining dry ingredients until just combined
- Fill and bake:
- Divide batter among liners, filling 2/3 full, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean
- Make the buttercream:
- Beat butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and milk until fluffy
- Add color and decorate:
- Mix in pink food coloring gradually, frost cooled cupcakes, and add your chosen decorations
Save My niece asked if she could help decorate during her cousins shower. She concentrated so hard on placing each tiny pearl, tongue sticking out slightly. Those slightly imperfect cupcakes were the first ones to disappear.
Making Them Ahead
Bake these cupcakes the day before your event and store them in an airtight container. Frost them the morning of for the freshest taste and prettiest presentation.
Customizing Colors
While pink is classic for baby girls, any pastel shade works beautifully. Soft lavender, mint green, or peach create equally stunning displays for different themes or preferences.
Piping Like a Pro
Practice your piping technique on a plate before decorating the actual cupcakes. A simple star tip creates those beautiful swirls that look bakery-perfect.
- Hold the piping bag at a 90 degree angle for the best control
- Start from the outer edge and work inward in a spiral
- Release pressure before lifting the bag away completely
Save Theres something about pink buttercream that makes everything feel like a celebration. Hope these cupcakes bring joy to your special day.
Recipe FAQ
- → How far in advance can I make these cupcakes?
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You can bake the cupcakes one day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the freshest appearance and texture.
- → Can I use a different frosting color?
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Absolutely! Swap the pink food coloring for any pastel shade to match different themes or preferences. The buttercream works beautifully with lavender, mint, or yellow.
- → What piping tip works best for these cupcakes?
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A large star tip creates beautiful swirls, but an open round tip works well for simple peaks. You can also spread the frosting with a spatula for a rustic look.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Keep frosted cupcakes in a cool place for up to 24 hours, or refrigerate in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- → Can I make these dairy-free?
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Substitute plant-based butter and milk alternatives for both cupcakes and frosting. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.
- → Why did my cupcakes sink in the middle?
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This usually happens from underbaking or opening the oven door too early. Ensure your oven is fully preheated and avoid checking until the minimum baking time has passed.
