Classic Spaghetti Carbonara: An Easy and Delicious Italian Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup of white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1/2 cup of sprinkles

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, into the butter and sugar mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in the sprinkles.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A medium-sized bowl to combine the dry ingredients.
  • Whisk - Used to mix and incorporate the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients.
  • Electric Mixer - To cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Measuring Cups - For accurately measuring the flour, butter, sugar, and milk.
  • Measuring Spoons - To measure the baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
  • Muffin Tin - A baking pan with individual cups to hold the cupcake batter.
  • Paper Liners - Liners that go inside the muffin tin to prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
  • Spatula - Used to fold in the sprinkles and to scrape the sides of the bowl.
  • Toothpick - To check if the cupcakes are done by inserting it into the center.
  • Wire Rack - To cool the cupcakes after baking and remove them from the muffin tin.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
  • Try using different extracts such as almond, lemon, or coconut instead of vanilla extract.
  • Make a cream cheese frosting to top the cupcakes.
  • Create a fruit-filled variation by filling the center of each cupcake with a small amount of fruit jam or preserves before baking.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the batter for a warm and cozy twist.
  • Make gluten-free cupcakes by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • For a vegan option, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based milk such as almond or soy milk.
  • Create a cookies and cream version by crushing chocolate sandwich cookies and folding them into the batter.
  • Experiment with different types of sprinkles or colorful sugar crystals to customize the look of the cupcakes.

Recipe overview

Get ready to bring a burst of fun and flavor to your baking with these delightful sprinkle cupcakes! This easy-to-follow recipe yields a batch of 12 cupcakes that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. With a tender, vanilla-scented crumb and a surprise sprinkle of color throughout, these cupcakes are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. They are perfect for parties, birthdays, or as a simple treat to brighten up any day. The recipe involves a straightforward creaming method, making it a great one to try if you're new to baking. Enjoy the process and the delectable results!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with cake flour if desired. However, the texture of the cupcakes may be slightly different.
  2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter. Just remember to adjust the amount of salt accordingly or omit it completely.
  3. Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can use granulated sugar or even brown sugar instead of white sugar. However, the taste and texture of the cupcakes may vary slightly.
  4. Can I use a different flavor extract? Yes, you can use a different flavor extract such as almond or lemon instead of vanilla extract. It will change the flavor profile of the cupcakes.
  5. Can I add additional mix-ins? Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the batter along with the sprinkles for extra flavor and texture.
  6. How should I store the cupcakes? Store the cooled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
  7. Can I freeze the cupcakes? Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before serving.
  8. Can I make mini cupcakes instead? Yes, you can make mini cupcakes using the same batter. Just adjust the baking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness around 12-15 minutes.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowls - Use to combine ingredients and mix the batter.
  • Whisk - Use to beat eggs and incorporate air into the batter.
  • Spatula - Use to scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold in the sprinkles.
  • Muffin tin - Use to bake the cupcakes.
  • Paper liners - Line the muffin tin to prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
  • Wire rack - Use to cool the cupcakes evenly after baking.
  • Toothpick - Use to test the doneness of the cupcakes.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Use to measure the ingredients accurately.

Origin stories

Cupcakes, like the ones we're baking here, have a rather sweet and endearing history. They originated in the United States in the 19th century as a more efficient and convenient way of baking. Back then, they were called "number" cakes because the recipes were easy to remember - a cup of butter, two cups of sugar, three cups of flour, four eggs, one cup of milk, and a spoonful of soda. It was as simple as 1, 2, 3, 4. This might sound mundane to us now, with ready access to measuring tools and recipe books. But imagine, in a time when most recipes were shared orally, how revolutionary such simplicity must have been! Now, we continue the tradition with our own twist, adding delightful sprinkles to our cupcakes. It's a nod to the joyful evolution of this humble, yet beloved dessert.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.