Introduction

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Introduction

I recently tried my hand at making a new kind of cupcake: vanilla cupcakes topped with toasted marshmallows. Sounds tempting, right? These delightful treats are not only sweet and simple but also incredibly delicious — everyone will fall in love with them from the very first bite. The vanilla cupcakes are light and fluffy, made with real vanilla beans, and topped with a luscious chocolate marshmallow frosting, finished off with toasted marshmallows for that perfect crunch. They're perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Vanilla Cupcakes:

• 1 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 eggs
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup warm milk
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Chocolate Marshmallow Frosting:

• 3 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups marshmallows

Essential Tools

You’ll need a cupcake pan and liners for baking. A few mixing bowls and a whisk will suffice to prepare the batter. For the frosting, you can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to whip it into a light, fluffy consistency. Don’t forget a spatula for mixing and scraping down the sides of the bowl, along with a cookie scoop for portioning the batter into the cupcake liners.

Steps to Make Your Cupcakes

Step 1: Preparation

First, preheat your oven and line the cupcake pan with liners. I like to start here so everything is ready once the batter is mixed.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, sour cream, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using real vanilla will give your cupcakes an incredible flavor right from the start. If you have vanilla bean paste, use it for an extra special touch. Next, add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently mix, then slowly pour in the warm milk, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before decorating — this step is crucial!

Step 4: Make the Frosting

Once the cupcakes are cool, it’s time to make the frosting. Beat together the butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add in the heavy cream and whip until light and fluffy, resembling mousse. It will be wonderfully fragrant and light.

Step 5: Toast the Marshmallows

Place the marshmallows on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them as they can burn easily. You want them lightly browned on top. Let them cool slightly before gently folding about half of them into the frosting. This will create sweet marshmallow chunks inside.

Step 6: Decorate the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe a thick layer of frosting on top. Don’t hold back! Finally, sprinkle the remaining toasted marshmallows on top. If you’re making these for Easter or a spring gathering, try adding a chocolate egg or bunny shape on each cupcake for a fun touch.

Tips and Tricks

If possible, use real vanilla extract instead of imitation vanilla. This really makes a difference and enhances the vanilla flavor in your cupcakes. If you only have imitation vanilla, that’s okay too! Be careful not to overmix the batter. When adding the flour and milk, mix just until everything is combined. This keeps the cupcakes soft and fluffy instead of dense. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows while toasting — they can brown quickly. I never take my eyes off the oven during this step. Let the marshmallows cool a bit before folding them into the frosting. If they’re too hot, they’ll melt the frosting instead of creating those delightful sweet pockets. If the frosting seems too thick, add a little more cream and whip again until light and fluffy. Finally, to add a bit of springtime or Easter cheer, decorate each cupcake with a chocolate egg or bunny. It’s simple but will make your cupcakes look adorable and festive!

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