Blondes More Fun Than Chocolate? You Decide.

Here it is, finally, the recipe from my book review of Sprinkle With Murder.  This is an almond flavored cupcake topped with vanilla buttercream and sprinkled with toasted almonds.

I love the texture of these cupcakes. Not too dense and not airy like most box mixes. The buttercream frosting makes a very generous amount. 

                   Makes 24.

                   Preheat oven to 350.

                   You Will Need:

                   3/4 c unsalted butter, softened

                   1 1/2  c sugar

                   2 eggs, at room temp.

                   1 1/2 t almond extract

                   1/2 t vanilla extract

                   2 1/2 t baking powder

                   1/4 t salt

                   2 1/2 c flour

                   1 1/4 c milk

                   Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. 
                   Cream butter and sugar at medium speed, add eggs and 
                   milk, beat until smooth. Beat in extracts. 

                  Add dry ingredient, beat until smooth. Fill cupcake liners 
                  2/3 full. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes. 

                  Frost with vanilla buttercream and sprinkle with toasted 
                  almond slivers.

Toasted Almonds:

Preheat oven to 350. Spread nuts in one layer on an ungreased shallow baking pan. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden.

Buttercream Frosting:

                   1/2 c solid vegetable shortening

                   1/2 c butter, softened

                    
                   1 t clear vanilla extract (imitation)
 

                   4 c sifted confectioners sugar

                   2 T milk


 
In large bowl, cream shortening and butter. Add vanilla. Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, beating well at medium speed. Scrape sides of bowl often. Add milk and beat at medium speed until light and fluffy. Keep bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use.  Makes 3 c frosting.

My Review: 

 
Ease of preparation: 4 out of 5

 
Time to prepare: 3 out of 5 
(I'm bad about setting things out to soften or warm.)

 
Taste: 5 out of 5

Would I make this again?: Yes.