Raspberry Bliss Cupcakes with Fresh Raspberry Whipped Cream Frosting

 

Raspberry Cupcakes

Ingredients:

For the cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ¼ cups fresh raspberries (lightly mashed)

For the raspberry whipped cream frosting:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup fresh raspberries (pureed)
• Extra raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

For the cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

2. Whisk together dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.

5. Add dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Fold in the mashed raspberries: Gently fold in the lightly mashed raspberries, being careful not to overmix the batter.

7. Bake the cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

8. Cool: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the raspberry whipped cream frosting:

1. Puree the raspberries: In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh raspberries. Strain the puree to remove the seeds.

2. Make the whipped cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream on medium speed until it starts to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and raspberry puree, and continue whipping until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, or the cream will become grainy.

Assemble the cupcakes:

1. Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, generously frost each cupcake with the raspberry whipped cream frosting.

2. Garnish: Place a whole fresh raspberry on top of each cupcake for a beautiful finishing touch.

Enjoy your Raspberry Cupcakes!