4th of July Swirl Cupcakes Recipe

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These 4th of July Swirl Cupcakes are the perfect way to add a festive touch to your Independence Day celebrations. Featuring bold red, white, and blue colors, each cupcake is a delightful burst of patriotic pride. Topped with smooth vanilla buttercream and sprinkled with themed decorations, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

  • Cupcake:
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
    • 1/2 cup natural or Greek yogurt
    • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • Red and blue food coloring
  • Vanilla Buttercream:
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or whole milk)
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Decorations:
    • 2 tablespoons sprinkles (red, white, and blue)

Directions

  1. Preheat & Prepare: Heat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin pan with 12 cupcake liners.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and yogurt.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
  5. Color the Batter: Split the batter into three parts. Color one part red, another blue, and leave the third white.
  6. Fill & Swirl: Distribute the three colored batters into the cupcake liners. Gently swirl with a toothpick to create a marbled effect.
  7. Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
  8. Make Frosting: Beat butter, then gradually add powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
  9. Decorate: Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and add patriotic sprinkles.

Tips

  • Opt for gel food coloring for more vivid colors.
  • Allow cupcakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Adjust the sugar level in the frosting to suit your taste preferences.

FAQs

  1. Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
    • Yes, the cupcakes can be baked a day ahead and kept unfrosted in an airtight container. Frost before serving.
  2. How can I ensure my cupcakes are moist?
    • Do not overmix the batter, and make sure to measure ingredients accurately.
  3. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
    • Sour cream is a good substitute, providing similar texture and moisture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 12 cupcakes

Category: Dessert

Method: Baking

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegetarian

Conclusion

4th of July Swirl Cupcakes are more than just a treat—they’re a festive addition to your Independence Day. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cupcakes bring a patriotic flair to your celebrations. Gather your ingredients, and get ready to dazzle your guests with these visually stunning and deliciously rich cupcakes.

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