Sweet Treat Alert: Easter Vanilla Cupcakes with Candy Egg “Nests”

Spring has officially sprung, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of adorable Easter cupcakes? Courtesy of the pastry pros at Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, these Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Icing and candy eggs are as cute as they are delicious—and perfect for little hands to help decorate. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, surprising your coworkers, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these charming treats will hop right into your heart. —Vita Daily

Easter Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Icing & Candy Eggs (Makes 12)

Ingredients

Vanilla Cupcakes

• 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk

Buttercream Icing

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups (210g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (as needed)
• Food coloring (optional – think pastel pinks, yellows, greens, or blues)

Decorations

• 36 mini candy-coated chocolate eggs (3 per cupcake)
• Optional: shredded coconut for “nests”

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add butter, eggs, vanilla, and milk. Beat on medium speed with a mixer for about 2 minutes, until smooth and fluffy.
4. Divide the batter evenly into liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Buttercream

1. In a bowl, beat butter for 2–3 minutes until light and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well between additions.
3. Mix in vanilla and just enough milk or cream to get your desired texture.
4. If using, add food coloring and stir to combine.

Decorate

Pipe or spread the buttercream onto each cooled cupcake. Top with three candy eggs, and if you like, sprinkle shredded coconut around to create sweet little nests.