Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk
A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
For the Saffron Cardamom Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
The remaining saffron-infused milk (from the cupcakes)
1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
A few saffron threads (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
For the Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom. Set aside.
In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Mix the saffron-infused milk into the wet ingredients. You can do this by steeping the saffron threads in warm milk for about 15 minutes before using.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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 Saffron Cardamom Buttercream:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
Mix in the remaining saffron-infused milk and the ground cardamom until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Assembly:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the Saffron Cardamom Buttercream on top of the cupcakes using your preferred decorating tip.
Optionally, garnish with a few saffron threads on top of each cupcake for a visual and fragrant touch.
These Saffron Cardamom Cupcakes combine the luxurious flavor of saffron with the aromatic essence of cardamom for a uniquely exotic and delightful dessert. Enjoy the warm and floral notes in every bite!