Sweet Things- Light n Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

Cupcakes=Fun!! Next time you have a birthday cake to buy or make, try cupcakes instead. They are the perfect size and kids and adults love them equally. This recipe is a variation of my favorite simple cake recipe from the Kitchen Aid Cookbook. The use of only egg whites gives the batter a light as air texture. I added the lemon zest for a burst of simple freshness. I frost them with a light version of cream cheese frosting and sprinkles.. WHAT FUN!

Light n Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

• 2 C all purpose Flour
• 1 ½ C granulated Sugar
• 3 tsp Baking powder
• ½ tsp Salt
• ½ C Shortening
• 1 C low-fat Milk
• 4 Egg whites
• Zest of 1 lemon

1. Pre-heat oven to 350⁰ F.
2. Combine (sift the flour) dry ingredients in mixer bowl.
3. Add shortening, milk, vanilla, and zest. Mix at low speed on electric or stand mixer for about a 1 minute.
4. Stop and scrape, add egg whites. Turn to medium high speed and beat about 1 min, or until the batter is smooth and fluffy.
5. Pour batter into greased of lined cupcake tins (try to only fill the cups to the half way point).
6. Bake at 350⁰ F for 20-25 mins, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Cool 10 mins then remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack. Frost when completely cooled.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 mini tubs (1.25 oz each) Strawberry cream cheese; softened
• ½ C (1 stick) butter; softened
• 2 tsp Vanilla
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 C powdered sugar

1. Combine the cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and zest in mixer bowl. Cream together on medium high speed with electric mixer or stand mixer for 2 minutes. Stop and scrape.
2. Sift powdered sugar into the mixer bowl. Mix on low speed for about 30 secs until just combined. Stop and scrape.
3. Turn to medium high and beat for 2 minutes until the frosting starts to look light and fluffy.
4. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Happy Eating!!