Mary Berrys Ultimate Cupcake Recipe: Bake Like A Pro

The delightful aroma of freshly baked cupcakes can transform any ordinary day into a sweet celebration. 🎂 Mary Berry, the revered queen of British baking, has shared her ultimate cupcake recipe that promises perfection every time you don a apron and wield a whisk. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, Mary Berry's approach to baking cupcakes is both accessible and guaranteed to deliver irresistible results. Let's dive into the magic that is baking like a pro with Mary Berry's recipe.

Understanding the Recipe

Ingredients 🎈

Here's what you'll need to create these delectable treats:

• 175g unsalted butter, softened
• 175g caster sugar
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 175g self-raising flour, sifted
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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The Method 🎂

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, Gas Mark 4). This is crucial for even baking.

2. Line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cupcake cases.

3. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until pale and fluffy. This might take a few minutes but is essential for light cupcakes.

4. Gradually add the beaten eggs, mixing well after each addition. Add a tablespoon of the flour at this point if the mixture starts to curdle.

5. Sift in the remaining flour, baking powder, milk, and vanilla extract. Fold gently until the mixture is well combined but still has a light texture.

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Baking the Cupcakes

1. Divide the batter evenly among the paper cases, filling each about two-thirds full.

2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cupcakes are golden and well risen. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

3. Cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Decorating Your Cupcakes

Frosting 🍫

Mary Berry suggests a simple buttercream for these cupcakes:

• 175g butter, softened
• 350g icing sugar, sifted
• 2-3 tbsp milk

1. Beat the butter until it's creamy and smooth.

2. Gradually sift in the icing sugar, beating all the time.

3. Add the milk to achieve the desired consistency. For color, you can use food coloring gels.

Finishing Touches

• Spread or pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.

• Decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or even tiny flowers made from fondant for that professional touch.

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Baking Tips from Mary Berry

<p class="pro-note">🔥 Note: Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.</p>

• Accurate Measurements: Use digital scales for precision in baking.

• Perfect Piping: If you want to pipe the frosting, let it set slightly to achieve those perfect swirls.

• Avoid Overmixing: Fold in the flour gently to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.

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Variations and Add-ins

Flavour Enhancements 🍓

• Lemon and Poppy Seed: Add zest of one lemon and 1 tbsp poppy seeds to the batter.

• Chocolate Lovers: Replace 10% of the flour with cocoa powder, and add chocolate chips to the batter.

• Berries and Cream: Swirl in pureed berries or gently fold in fresh berries just before baking.

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Pairing Suggestions

Drinks 🥛

• Tea: A classic pairing, especially with Earl Grey or English Breakfast.

• Milk: For a nostalgic treat, enjoy your cupcakes with a glass of cold milk.

• Coffee: An espresso or latte complements the flavors perfectly.

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Storing Your Cupcakes

• Room Temperature: Frosted cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.

• Freezing: Unfrosted cupcakes freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

<p class="pro-note">❄️ Note: When thawing cupcakes, do so at room temperature; microwaving can make them soggy.</p>

Mary Berry's ultimate cupcake recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it's an invitation to embrace the joy of baking. With these cupcakes, you're not just baking; you're creating moments of happiness, whether for yourself or for sharing with others. The perfect balance of textures and flavors, coupled with her foolproof techniques, ensures that anyone can bake like a pro. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let's bake with Mary Berry's magic touch.

Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe; it's about the love and care you put into every step, the joy of the process, and the delight in every bite. Here's to baking some of the most delicious, fluffy, and delectable cupcakes you've ever tasted!

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or vegetable oil, and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I ensure my cupcakes rise evenly?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, avoid overmixing the batter, and use an oven thermometer to check the oven's temperature accuracy.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What if my cupcakes come out dry?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>This can happen if you overbake them. Always check your cupcakes a few minutes before the recipe suggests, as ovens can vary.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>