Every year, thousands of parents dim the lights, grab the camera, and stand in front of their child. “Make a wish!” they exclaim before snapping a photo of their kid’s puffed up cheeks blowing out the glowing birthday candles.
I dread this moment. I never know which singing face to look at, so I stare awkwardly at the cake in front of me, outwardly smiling but inwardly sweating.
What should I wish for?
A new car? More baking supplies? Complete happiness? World peace?
After squinting at the cake for over 60 very long seconds and hearing people politely clearing their throats, I screw up my face and blow, wishing I could come up with a wish, any wish at all.
So why do I put up with this torturous yearly ritual?
Because I get to bake myself a cake. With the flavors and frosting that I want. And for a girl who loves to bake, what better birthday present could I give myself than spending a day in the kitchen making myself (multiple) desserts to share?
based on CL’s Red Velvet Cake
Weeks ago, I decided to bake my own renditions of the cupcakes <<>> my neighbor sweetly gave me, and what better time to start than for my birthday? Use vanilla instead if your guests don’t like cream cheese frosting.
- To prepare the cupcakes, preheat the oven to 350° and line 20 muffin cups with cupcake liners.
- Whisk the flour, salt, and cocoa together in a medium bowl. Stir the milk and red food coloring together in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy, 3-5 min. Add the vanilla and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Alternately add the flour and milk mixtures, beginning and ending with the flour. Do not overmix!
- In a small bowl, stir the vinegar and baking soda together. Mix into the cupcake batter. Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared pans, and bake at 350° for 26-30 min or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 5 min before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- To prepare the frosting, beat the butter, cream cheese, and vanilla together until smooth. Add in the powdered sugar, ½-cup at a time, until it reaches the desired taste and consistency. Spread or pipe over the tops of the cooled cupcakes.
Beautiful cupcakes. Red velvet is also a favourite of mine.
Thank you! I actually hadn’t tried red velvet cake until a few weeks ago, and I was surprised at how delicious it was!
Great post! your bakes look sooo delicious! =)
Thank you! Believe it or not, they tasted even better than they looked!