Ingredients
Scale
For the cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra moistness)
For the buttercream frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Food coloring (optional, to match conversation heart colors)
For the decoration:
- Conversation heart candies (or any small candy of choice)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour mixture) and the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. If using sour cream, fold it in at this point.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well between each addition.
- Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or milk. Beat on high for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream or milk, 1 teaspoon at a time.
- If using food coloring, divide the frosting into separate bowls and add the desired colors. Mix until well incorporated.
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the buttercream frosting using a piping bag or an offset spatula.
- Decorate with conversation heart candies or your choice of candies, sprinkles, or edible glitter.
- Serve and enjoy your sweet, festive Conversation Heart Cupcakes!