Cupcakes

Cupcake

A variety of cupcakes
Alternative names	Fairy cake, patty cake
Type	Cake
Course	Dessert
Place of origin	United States
Serving temperature	Room temperature
Main ingredients	Flour, sugar, butter, eggs, frosting
Variations	Numerous
Cookbook: Cupcake   Media: Cupcake

A cupcake (also British English: fairy cake; Hiberno-English: bun; Australian English: fairy cake or patty cake) is a small cake designed to serve one person, which may be baked in a small thin paper or aluminum cup. As with larger cakes, icing and other cake decorations, such as candy, fruit, and nuts, may be applied.

History

The origin of cupcakes can be traced back to the United States in the early 19th century. The term "cupcake" was mentioned in "Seventy-five Receipts for Pastry, Cakes, and Sweetmeats" by Eliza Leslie in 1828. Initially, cupcakes were called "number cakes" or "1234 cakes" because the recipe called for one cup of butter, two cups of sugar, three cups of flour, and four eggs.

Preparation

Cupcakes are made using the creaming method, where sugar and butter are beaten together until light and fluffy before adding eggs and flour. This method incorporates air into the batter, giving cupcakes their light, fluffy texture. Cupcakes are then baked in a preheated oven until they rise and are golden brown.

Varieties

There are countless varieties of cupcakes, ranging from simple vanilla and chocolate cupcakes to more elaborate creations featuring various fillings, toppings, and frostings. Some popular varieties include red velvet cupcakes, lemon cupcakes, and salted caramel cupcakes.

Cultural Significance

Cupcakes have gained immense popularity in recent years, partly due to their individual serving size, ease of decoration, and versatility. They have become a staple at birthday parties, weddings, and other celebrations. The rise of boutique cupcake shops and television shows dedicated to cupcake baking competitions has also contributed to their popularity.

See also

• Cake decorating
• Muffin
• Baking
• Dessert