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Sparkling Glitter Frosting Cupcakes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 52 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight in these beautiful Glitter Frosting Cupcakes featuring a soft, moist vanilla cupcake topped with a creamy, fluffy buttercream frosting adorned with sparkling edible glitter. Perfect for celebrations and adding a touch of sparkle to any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

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 flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly combine the dry components.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, creating an airy base for the batter.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Evenly distribute the batter among the liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
  8. Cool Cupcakes: Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
  9. Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time on low speed, scraping the bowl as needed.
  10. Add Liquids and Beat: Mix in milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then beat on high for 3-4 minutes until the frosting becomes light and fluffy. Add more milk if the consistency is too thick.
  11. Add Color (Optional): If desired, incorporate a few drops of food coloring and mix until you achieve the preferred shade.
  12. Frost Cupcakes: Once cooled, frost each cupcake generously using a piping bag or butter knife.
  13. Decorate with Glitter: Sprinkle edible glitter or shimmer powder liberally over the frosting for a dazzling finish. Use one color or blend multiple shades for vibrancy.
  14. Serve: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, maintaining freshness and sparkle.

Notes

  • Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
  • Adjust milk quantity in frosting to achieve desired consistency for easier spreading or piping.
  • Use edible glitter specifically designed for food to ensure safety.
  • You can customize frosting color with gel or liquid food coloring.
  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container to keep them moist and fresh.