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Beautiful buttercream succulent gardens showcasing vibrant arrangements and easy care.

Buttercream Succulent Gardens

Create delightful cupcakes topped with vibrant buttercream succulents, perfect for celebrations, gifts, or a creative afternoon project.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Use bleached or unbleached flour for best results.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensure freshness for good rise.
  • 0.25 teaspoons salt
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for best flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Regular sugar provides structure.
  • 2 large eggs Use room temperature for best emulsion.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cups milk Room temperature for even mixing.
For Buttercream Frosting
  • 3 cups buttercream frosting Prepare a classic buttercream.
  • as needed food coloring (green, pink, purple, etc.) Gel colors work best.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with dry, mixing until just combined.
  6. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
Baking
  1. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
Decorating
  1. Prepare the buttercream frosting and tint it with food coloring.
  2. Pipe succulent designs on each cooled cupcake using various piping tips.
  3. Arrange your Buttercream Succulent Gardens on a tiered stand or platter for display.

Notes

Store decorated cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze undecorated cupcakes for up to 3 months.