Blackberry cupcakes

Blackberry Cupcakes: A Fruity and Aromatic Delight

If you are a berry lover, then blackberry cupcakes are definitely the perfect dessert for you. These delicious treats not only have a stunning color but also an unmistakable aroma that will make you fall in love with them at first bite. Blackberries, with their sweet-tart flavor, combine perfectly with a smooth cream cheese frosting and a refined syrup, creating a unique culinary experience. So, let's get started!

Preparation Time:
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Number of servings: 16 large cupcakes or 22 small ones

Your Ingredients:
To make the most delicious blackberry cupcakes, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

*For the cupcakes:*
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 300 g flour
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 150 g sugar
- 350 ml fresh blackberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 100 ml milk (at room temperature)

*For the topping:*
- 200 g cream cheese
- 60 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 1 packet whipping cream stabilizer (optional, depending on consistency)

*For the blackberry sauce:*
- 100 g blackberries
- 1 tablespoon sugar

Step by Step for a Perfect Result:

1. Preparing Ingredients: Start by taking the butter, eggs, and milk out of the fridge at least one hour before you start cooking. This will help achieve a uniform texture in the batter.

2. Preparing the Batter: In a large bowl, mix the butter with the sugar for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color.

3. Mixing Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. This dry mixture will help distribute the ingredients evenly in the batter.

4. Combining Wet Ingredients: Whisk the eggs in a small bowl and add the milk. Pour half of the egg and milk mixture over the whipped butter, followed by half of the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until combined. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

5. Preparing the Blackberries: Wash the blackberries and gently mash them with a fork to release their juice. Add the vanilla extract and crushed blackberries to the batter, mixing with a spatula to avoid breaking the fruit too much.

6. Filling the Cups: Prepare the cupcake liners. Fill each cup with batter up to halfway (or 3/4 if you choose the 16 cupcake option).

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the cupcakes for 18-20 minutes until they turn golden and pass the toothpick test.

8. Cooling: Once the cupcakes are baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial to avoid melting the cream cheese when you frost them.

9. Preparing the Topping: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the sugar for 3 minutes, gradually adding the liquid cream. If the cream does not become thick, add a packet of whipping cream stabilizer.

10. Preparing the Blackberry Sauce: Boil the blackberries with the sugar for a few minutes, then strain the mixture to obtain a smooth sauce. Let the sauce cool.

11. Decorating: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled and the sauce is at room temperature, frost each cupcake with the cream cheese, giving them the desired shape. Finally, drizzle with blackberry sauce for an elegant look and delicious aroma.

Tips and Tricks:
- If you want a more intense blackberry flavor, you can replace some of the sugar with blackberry puree in the cupcake batter.
- You can also add other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for an interesting mix.
- These cupcakes are perfect for various occasions: parties, brunches, or simply to enjoy a sweet moment at home.

Nutritional Benefits:
Blackberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a healthy ingredient in a dessert. Additionally, cream cheese adds a source of protein, and using a natural sweetener can make this recipe friendlier for those looking to limit sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen blackberries? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. How can I store the cupcakes? They keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
3. Can I substitute cream cheese? You can use a vegan alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter topping.

Serving Suggestions:
These blackberry cupcakes are delicious alongside a warm tea or a cappuccino. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or a berry sorbet would perfectly complement the meal.

So, are you ready to treat your taste buds with these blackberry cupcakes? Don’t forget to share your impressions of the recipe! Enjoy!