Real Strawberry Cupcakes

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup strawberry puree
• 1/2 cup buttercream frosting

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 12 cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
3. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; stir into the creamed mixture alternately with the milk and strawberry puree. Fill the muffin tin 3/4 full.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Cool cupcakes in the tin for 10 minutes then remove from the tin and cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the buttercream frosting.

Interesting Facts

• Strawberry puree is a great way to add flavor and moisture to cupcakes.
• Adding vanilla extract to the batter enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.
• Strawberry cupcakes can be decorated with fresh strawberries or strawberry icing for a special touch.