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Glitter Frosting Cupcakes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 52 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight your guests with these irresistible Glitter Frosting Cupcakes, featuring moist vanilla cupcakes topped with smooth, fluffy buttercream frosting and decorated with sparkling edible glitter for a magical touch. Perfect for celebrations or any time you want to add a little sparkle to your dessert table.


Ingredients

Cupcakes

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup whole milk

Glitter Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp whole milk (more if needed for consistency)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Edible glitter or shimmer powder (for decoration)
  • Optional: Food coloring (for colored frosting)


Instructions

  1. Make the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Evenly divide the batter among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
  8. Cool Cupcakes: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  10. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed for an even mix.
  11. Finish Frosting: Add milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then beat on high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
  12. Color Frosting (Optional): If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and mix until you reach your preferred shade.
  13. Frost Cupcakes: Once cool, frost the cupcakes generously using a piping bag or butter knife.
  14. Decorate with Glitter: Sprinkle edible glitter or shimmer powder liberally over the frosted cupcakes for a beautiful sparkling finish.
  15. Serve or Store: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh sparkle or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter and frosting.
  • Do not overmix the cupcake batter to keep the cupcakes light and tender.
  • Use edible glitter specifically made for food to ensure it is safe for consumption.
  • Colored frosting can be customized to match any party theme or occasion.
  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container to keep them fresh, but avoid refrigeration to maintain frosting texture.