Description

These vibrant, multi-colored cupcakes feature a classic Southern vanilla base enriched with both butter and oil for a perfectly moist crumb. They are simple to assemble and offer a playful surprise in every bite, making them a hit for any celebration or family gathering.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
Gel or liquid food coloring (red, blue, green, and yellow)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two 12-cup muffin pans with paper baking liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well blended.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth emulsion.
Reduce mixer speed to low and alternately add the flour and milk mixtures, beginning and ending with the flour; mix until just incorporated.
Divide the batter evenly into four separate bowls and stir a few drops of a different food color into each bowl until the color is uniform.
Drop small dollops of the different colored batters into each cupcake liner until they are 1/2 to 3/4 full, allowing the colors to settle naturally.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, then cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

For the most vibrant results, use gel food coloring as it provides intense color without thinning the batter. Ensure your butter and eggs are truly at room temperature to prevent the batter from curdling, which ensures that signature silky crumb texture. If you prefer a more subtle look, you can use a single drop of dye for a pastel palette perfect for spring events.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American