Christmas Tree Mini Cupcakes

Ingredients and Weight:

• For cupcakes:
  • All-purpose flour - 1 1/2 cups (187g)
  • Granulated sugar - 1 1/4 cups (250g)
  • Baking powder - 1 teaspoon (5g)
  • Baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g)
  • Salt - 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g)
  • Unsalted butter, softened - 1/2 cup (113g)
  • Large egg - 1
  • Milk - 1 cup (240ml)
  • Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon (5ml)
• For frosting:
  • Unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup (226g)
  • Cream cheese, softened - 8 ounces (226g)
  • Powdered sugar - 3 cups (360g)
  • Green food coloring - a few drops
  • Piping bag fitted with a star tip

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 12-15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• Easy (Level 2)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
5. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. To make frosting, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached. Add green food coloring to achieve the desired shade.
8. Transfer frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
9. Pipe a generous swirl of frosting onto each cupcake.
10. Decorate with sprinkles or candy as desired.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories per cupcake: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Festive and adorable
• Soft and fluffy cupcakes
• Creamy and smooth frosting
• Perfect for Christmas parties or family gatherings

User Comments:

• "These cupcakes are so cute and delicious. They were a hit at my Christmas party." - Sarah
• "I love the green frosting! It's the perfect way to celebrate Christmas." - Emily
• "These cupcakes are easy to make and turned out so beautiful. I'll definitely be making them again next year." - Jessica

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure proper mixing.
• Do not overmix the batter, as it can make the cupcakes tough.
• Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• If the frosting becomes too thick, add a little milk or water to thin it out.