Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons almond meal (ground almonds)
1/2 cup finely chopped almonds (for texture)
Sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
For the Almond Frosting:
1/2 cup dairy-free butter (such as vegan butter)
3 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
1 teaspoon almond extract
A pinch of salt
Instructions:
For the Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, mix the almond milk and almond extract. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, and applesauce until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the almond milk mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Fold in the almond meal and chopped almonds to the batter for added flavor and texture.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Almond Frosting:
In a bowl, beat the dairy-free butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, almond milk, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more almond milk or powdered sugar if needed.
Assembly:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the Almond Frosting on top of the cupcakes using your preferred decorating tip.
Optionally, garnish with sliced almonds for a nutty and decorative touch.
These Dairy-Free Almond Cupcakes are a delectable treat for those with dairy sensitivities or following a dairy-free diet. They offer a rich almond flavor and a delightful crunch from the chopped almonds. Enjoy the nutty goodness in every bite!