There is something truly magical about a delicate, floral-inspired treat that captivates both the eyes and the palate, and this Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe does just that. With its moist, subtly cherry-flavored crumb and luscious cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes deliver a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and floral notes that will charm anyone lucky enough to get a bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a burst of springtime joy, this recipe is your ticket to a cupcake experience that feels fresh, inviting, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role: flour for structure, baking powder for the perfect rise, cherry extract for that signature scent and taste, and cream cheese frosting to add creamy richness. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip up this elegant treat.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the soft, tender base of the cupcakes, providing essential structure without heaviness.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully, giving them a light, airy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes just right, balancing the subtle cherry flavor without overpowering it.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cupcakes stay tender.
- 2 large eggs: Act as binders and contribute to the cake’s fluffiness and depth of flavor.
- ½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk): Provides moisture and a mild tang that complements the cherry extract perfectly.
- 2 tsp cherry extract: The star ingredient for that unmistakable, fragrant cherry note.
- 8 oz cream cheese (for frosting): Creates a creamy, tangy frosting that balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
- Fresh or maraschino cherries (for topping): Adds a pop of color and an extra cherry burst on top, making each cupcake picture-perfect.
How to Make Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cupcake Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake. Line your cupcake pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and to make serving a breeze later on.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar. This step evenly distributes the leavening and sugar, so you get consistent sweetness and rise in every cupcake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer, beat the softened butter until it becomes creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is vital for trapping air, which will give your cupcakes their tender crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Cherry Extract
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to integrate them fully. Then, stir in the cherry extract, letting that lovely flavor start to infuse into the batter.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition gently and only until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make cupcakes dense.
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This timing ensures a moist cupcake that’s perfectly cooked through without drying out.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Top them generously with creamy cream cheese frosting and garnish with fresh or maraschino cherries for that final, stunning touch.
How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
To really embrace the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe’s charm, garnish each cupcake with a bright, glossy cherry on top. You can also sprinkle edible flower petals or dust the frosting lightly with pink-sugar crystals to elevate the presentation and layer in delicate floral notes.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a light green tea or sparkling rosé to complement their sweetness and floral dimensions. A fresh fruit salad or a bowl of mixed berries can add freshness and balance, making your dessert spread feel refreshing and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional cupcake stand. Serve your Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe on pretty vintage plates adorned with cherry blossoms or pink napkins for a themed party. Or arrange them in a tiered glass cloche for a classy centerpiece that invites conversation and admiration before guests even take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra cupcakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cool environment keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh, and the cupcakes will stay moist for up to 3 days. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezing
You can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and frost once thawed for fresh-tasting cupcakes any time.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftover cupcakes warm, remove frosting if possible and microwave for about 10 seconds. Alternatively, a quick warm-up in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes works wonders. Add frosting back on after warming if removed.
FAQs
Can I use cherry jam instead of cherry extract?
While cherry jam adds great flavor, it will affect the cupcake’s texture and moisture. Cherry extract is more concentrated and won’t change the batter’s consistency, so it’s preferred for this recipe to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe vegan, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers, use plant-based butter alternatives, and swap whole milk for almond or oat milk. The cream cheese frosting would require a vegan cream cheese option as well.
Can these cupcakes be made gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain texture and rise.
How important is the cream cheese frosting for the flavor profile?
The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that perfectly cuts through the cupcake’s sweetness, providing balance and creaminess. While you could frost with vanilla buttercream, the classic pairing with cream cheese frosting truly elevates the Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe.
What’s the best way to get the cupcakes to rise evenly?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Also, filling cupcake liners about two-thirds full helps them rise nicely without overflowing or sinking.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the joy of baking and sharing a batch of Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe with the people you love. This recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create cupcakes that look beautiful, taste divine, and feel special with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, these cupcakes are sure to become a recurring favorite in your kitchen. Go ahead and treat yourself—you deserve it!
Print
Cherry Blossom Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cherry Blossom Cupcakes, a charming treat featuring a tender vanilla base infused with cherry extract and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and fresh cherries. Perfect for spring celebrations or anytime you crave a fruity, elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 2 tsp cherry extract
Frosting and Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese (for frosting)
- Fresh or maraschino cherries (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar to evenly distribute the leavening agent and prevent clumps.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Extract: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the cherry extract to infuse the batter with a delicate cherry flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. This prevents overworking the batter which can cause toughness.
- Fill and Bake: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting and garnish each cupcake with fresh or maraschino cherries for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- Using buttermilk instead of whole milk will add extra tenderness and slight tang to the cupcakes.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain cupcake fluffiness.
- Fresh cherries provide a more natural taste while maraschino cherries add a sweeter, decorative touch.
- The cream cheese frosting can be sweetened with powdered sugar and a little vanilla extract for added flavor.
