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Unicorn Cupcakes Recipe

4.7 from 69 reviews

Delightfully whimsical Unicorn Cupcakes featuring moist vanilla cupcakes topped with vibrant, colorful buttercream frosting and finished with a sprinkle of magic using assorted sprinkles. Perfect for celebrations and adding a burst of fun to any party.

Ingredients

Scale

Cupcakes

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 24 tablespoons whole milk

Decorations

  • Food coloring (assorted colors)
  • Sprinkles (assorted shapes and colors)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cupcake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternating with milk, mixing until just combined.
  2. Bake Cupcakes: Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
  3. Make Buttercream Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed. Add vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk, then increase speed to medium and beat until fluffy. Add more milk if needed to achieve spreadable consistency.
  4. Color the Frosting: Divide the buttercream into separate bowls depending on how many colors you want. Add a few drops of desired food coloring to each bowl and mix well until vibrant colors form.
  5. Frost Cupcakes: Using piping bags or a spatula, frost each cooled cupcake with the colored buttercream. You can create swirls or layers of different colors to mimic a unicorn’s magical look.
  6. Decorate: Sprinkle each cupcake generously with assorted sprinkles to add sparkle and fun. Allow frosting to set slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
  • Customize the colors and sprinkles to suit your party theme or preferences.
  • You can store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Keywords: unicorn cupcakes, vanilla cupcakes, colorful cupcakes, buttercream frosting, party cupcakes, sprinkles, fun dessert