America’s Strawberry Cupcakes

Heat oven at 350ºF.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.

In a mixing bowl, combine sugar and butter. Mix with a paddle attachment until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and strawberry extract. On low speed add eggs one at a time until incorporated.

Alternately add dry ingredients and milk, beating well after each addition. Add food coloring (you are trying to make the batter red, so you may need more). Mix well. If adding fresh strawberries, now is the time to gently fold them in. Using an ice cream scoop, fill prepared cupcake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cupcakes will puff up and look slightly golden on the edges. Do not over bake.

For the buttercream, beat room temperature butter until fluffy. Add vanilla. Slowly add powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time. Add milk or cream until you have a nice fluffy consistency. Add food coloring. Mix on medium speed for about 5 minutes. Once cupcakes have cooled, pipe on frosting and decorate with red and white sprinkles! Happy birthday USA!