Cherry-Almond Vanilla Cupcakes

These Cherry-Almond Vanilla Cupcakes are a delightful combination of sweet maraschino cherries and the subtle nutty flavor of almonds, all in a moist and fluffy vanilla cupcake. Perfect for any occasion

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, for garnish
• 1 batch of your favorite vanilla frosting

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350F 175C

Line a cupcake pan with paper liners

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt

Set aside

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition

Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients

Mix until just combined

Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and maraschino cherry juice until evenly distributed in the batter

Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with your favorite vanilla frosting, and garnish with sliced almonds

Serve and enjoy your delicious Cherry-Almond Vanilla Cupcakes