365 days ago, our Covid distance learning journey started. A couple of months into the pandemic, we discovered camping. Escaping into nature and sleeping under the stars has kept us sane and going this past year. One of our first outings was to a lovely spot along a creek, full of tadpoles and frogs. Just like our little frog friends, we returned to this spot this weekend to mark one full turn around the sun of a life forever altered. What has kept you going this past year?
If you have never played with fondant, you have been missing out! It is like Play-doh for adults and there is simple nothing you can’t do with it. And it is oddly therapeutic kneading, coloring, shaping it. Let your imagination run wild!
This is one of my favorite cupcake recipes, adapted from Smitten Kitchen.
- 6 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 egg yolks (honestly, when I want to be extra unfussy, I just use 2 large whole eggs total and call it a day)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk. I don’t usually keep buttermilk handy so here is my solution: combine 3/4 cup milk and 1 tablespoon white vinegar. Let stand for a couple of minutes until slightly curdled. No one will ever know the difference
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Preheat overn to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
- Cream butter and sugar together
- Add eggs, vanilla until combined
- Sprinkle baking soda, baking powder, and salt over the mixture
- Add the cornstarch and flour and gently mix until just combined.
- Line muffin tin with cupcake liners and spray with non-stick cooking spray
- Fill each muffin tin about 3/4 full
- Bake 25-27 minutes
My Favorite Frosting recipe:
I am not a fan of cloyingly sweet frosting. However, if your sweet tooth so desires, add more powdered sugar. I promise, I won’t tell.
- 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, also at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cup sifted powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon whole milk or cream. Tip: liquid, flavored coffee creamed works really well and tastes amazing
Mix all ingredients in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer until well combined and just fluffy. Use as is or let your color world explode:)
Threemermaidskitchen 