Vanilla Bean Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream

These Vanilla Bean Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring the rich, aromatic flavors of real vanilla beans. Topped with a light and creamy honey buttercream, each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence. Ideal for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to impress while remaining simple to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla bean paste.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
8. For the honey buttercream, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Add a splash of milk if the frosting is too thick.
9. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the honey buttercream and enjoy!