Unleash a burst of sweetness with these delightful M&M's stuffed vanilla cupcakes. Each bite reveals a surprise of peanut M&M's nestled inside a moist and fluffy cupcake. Perfect for parties or a special treat.
Photos of M&M’s Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
When preparing these cupcakes, make sure to have sour cream on hand, which adds moisture and richness to the batter. Peanut M&M's might also be a unique addition to your pantry. These colorful candies are essential for the surprise inside each cupcake.
Ingredients For M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Flour: The base for your cupcake batter, providing structure.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise.
Baking soda: Works with baking powder to give the cupcakes a light texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and helps with texture.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes and frosting.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
Sour cream: Adds moisture and tenderness to the batter.
Milk: Provides moisture and helps to mix the dry ingredients smoothly.
Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, sweet flavor to both the cupcakes and the frosting.
Peanut M&M's: The surprise element inside the cupcakes.
Powdered sugar: Used in the frosting to add sweetness and a smooth texture.
Food coloring: Optional, for adding color to the frosting.
One reader, Albert Desmond says:
These M&M's stuffed vanilla cupcakes are a delightful treat! The surprise crunch of peanut M&M's inside adds a fun twist, and the frosting is perfectly creamy. They were a hit at my party, and everyone loved the colorful surprise. Definitely making these again!
Key Techniques for Making M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
How to melt butter: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop until it is fully liquefied. How to use a stand mixer: Use a stand mixer to combine ingredients efficiently. Attach the appropriate mixing attachment and set the mixer to the recommended speed. How to cream butter: Beat the butter in a stand mixer until it becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. How to incorporate powdered sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar to the creamed butter while mixing to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency. How to add food coloring: Add a few drops of food coloring to the frosting and mix until the color is evenly distributed. Adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve the desired shade.
These vanilla cupcakes are packed with a sweet chocolate candy surprise in the middle between soft and moist cake, then topped with a colorful frosting.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3⅓cupsflour
- 1tspbaking powder
- ½tspbaking soda
- 1tspsalt
- 2cupsgranulated sugar
- 1cupunsalted butter,melted
- 2large eggs
- ½cupsour cream
- 1½cupmilk
- 1tbspvanilla extract
- 12ozPeanut M&Ms,(1 large bag)
For Frosting:
- 1cupunsalted butter,softened
- 1tbspvanilla extract
- 4cupspowdered sugar,sifted
- 3tbspmilk
- food coloring,or as needed
- 1bagM&M’s,(small bag), for garnish
Instructions
Cupcakes:
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line muffin tin with 24 cupcake liners. Set aside.
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In a stand mixer, add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Add the melted butter to a bowl and whisk in the sugar. Then, pour in the eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla.
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Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no lumps remain. The batter will be thicker than normal.
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Add half the normal amount of batter to the pan. Add 6 or so Peanut M&Ms of a single color into each cupcake. Or try and mix it up, using different colors.
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Add in the second half of the batter, then make sure the M&Ms are covered.
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Bake for 18 to 20 minutes
Frosting:
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Cream the room temperature butter in a stand mixer for 5 to 7 minutes until the butter is much lighter in color.
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Add in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated, then add in the vanilla extract.
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Pour in the milk, then beat for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
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Add preferred food coloring, and mix until color is completely incorporated.
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Frost over cupcakes, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 452.84kcal
- Fat: 21.54g
- Saturated Fat: 12.45g
- Trans Fat: 0.67g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.31g
- Carbohydrates: 61.05g
- Fiber: 1.05g
- Sugar: 45.88g
- Protein: 4.56g
- Cholesterol: 61.79mg
- Sodium: 165.18mg
- Calcium: 65.32mg
- Potassium: 115.00mg
- Iron: 0.52mg
- Vitamin A: 156.61µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
When incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, do it gradually and mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. This will help ensure your cupcakes remain light and fluffy.
Time-Saving Tips for Making M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.
Use room temperature butter: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother frosting.
Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt butter in the microwave instead of waiting for it to soften.
Mix dry ingredients first: Combine all dry ingredients in one bowl before starting to save time during mixing.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to evenly distribute batter into cupcake liners for uniform cupcakes.
Prepare frosting in advance: Make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge until needed.
Substitute Ingredients For M&M’s Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: This is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
baking powder - Substitute with 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar: This combination mimics the leavening effect of baking powder.
baking soda - Substitute with 1 tsp baking powder: Baking powder can be used in a pinch, though it may slightly alter the texture.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar flavor but a different texture, so use slightly more.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a dairy-free alternative with a subtle coconut flavor.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg for a vegan alternative.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile.
peanut m&ms - Substitute with chocolate-covered almonds: These provide a similar crunch and chocolate flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter is a plant-based alternative that works well in frosting.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract adds a unique, sweet flavor to the frosting.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Blend coconut sugar to a fine powder for a healthier alternative.
milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is a creamy, dairy-free option that works well in frosting.
food coloring - Substitute with natural food coloring: Natural food coloring is made from plant-based ingredients and is free from artificial additives.
m&m's - Substitute with chocolate chips: Chocolate chips provide a similar chocolatey burst without the candy coating.
Presentation Ideas for Irresistible M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Use elegant cupcake liners: Choose high-quality, decorative cupcake liners to give a refined look to your vanilla cupcakes.
Create a uniform frosting swirl: Use a piping bag with a star tip to create a consistent and elegant swirl of buttercream frosting on each cupcake.
Incorporate a surprise element: Ensure each cupcake has a hidden core of peanut m&ms, adding an element of surprise and delight when bitten into.
Add a touch of gold: Lightly dust the frosted cupcakes with edible gold dust to give them a luxurious finish.
Garnish with precision: Place a single m&m on top of each cupcake, ideally matching the color of the hidden m&ms inside, for a cohesive look.
Use a minimalist plate: Serve the cupcakes on a sleek, white plate to make the colors of the frosting and m&ms pop.
Add a fresh element: Garnish the plate with a small sprig of fresh mint or a few edible flowers to add a touch of freshness and color contrast.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the cupcakes with a small glass of milk or a shot of espresso to enhance the overall dining experience.
Highlight the texture: Cut one cupcake in half and display it on the plate to showcase the hidden m&ms and the moist texture of the vanilla cake.
Ensure perfect portion sizes: Make sure each cupcake is uniform in size and shape to maintain a professional and polished presentation.
Essential Tools for Baking M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Oven: Used to bake the cupcakes at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees F.
Muffin tin: Holds the cupcake liners and batter in place while baking.
Cupcake liners: Prevents the batter from sticking to the muffin tin and makes it easy to remove the cupcakes.
Stand mixer: Mixes the dry and wet ingredients together efficiently and ensures a smooth batter.
Mixing bowl: Holds the dry ingredients while they are being mixed.
Whisk: Used to combine the melted butter and sugar, and to whisk in the eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla.
Measuring cups: Measures the flour, sugar, milk, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measures smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: Helps to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Ice cream scoop: Helps to evenly distribute the cupcake batter into the liners.
Cooling rack: Allows the cupcakes to cool evenly after baking.
Piping bag: Used to apply the frosting onto the cupcakes in a decorative manner.
Piping tips: Attach to the piping bag to create different frosting designs.
Food coloring: Adds color to the frosting for a visually appealing finish.
Spatula or knife: Used to spread the frosting if not using a piping bag.
Small bowl: Holds the peanut m&ms before they are added to the batter.
Sifter: Ensures the powdered sugar is lump-free before adding it to the frosting.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for M&M's stuffed vanilla cupcakes:
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making them soggy.
- To store, place the cooled cupcakes in an airtight container. If you need to stack them, place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent the frosting from sticking.
- Store the cupcakes at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a hot or humid environment, consider storing them in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting or becoming too soft.
- To freeze, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, making sure to cover them tightly. Then, place the wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when you froze them.
- Freeze the cupcakes for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of cupcakes from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
- If you find that the frosting has become slightly hardened or the M&M's have lost some of their color after freezing, you can refresh the appearance by adding a few fresh M&M's on top before serving.
How to Reheat Leftover M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cupcakes are heated through and the frosting is slightly melted. This method will help restore the cupcakes' freshness and make the m&m's slightly gooey.
If you prefer a softer, more moist cupcake, try the microwave method. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as the frosting may melt completely, and the m&m's could become too soft.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcake directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cupcake is warmed through and the frosting is slightly melted. This method will give you a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, fluffy interior.
If you want to maintain the original texture of the frosting and m&m's, consider using a steamer. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cupcake in a steamer basket above the water, cover, and steam for 1-2 minutes. This gentle reheating method will soften the cake without melting the toppings.
For a unique twist, try slicing the leftover cupcake in half horizontally and toasting it in a pan with a small amount of butter. This will create a crispy, caramelized surface that pairs perfectly with the soft, fluffy interior. Reassemble the cupcake and enjoy it as a special treat.
Interesting Trivia About M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
A fun fact about this recipe is that the cupcakes have a delightful surprise inside. The peanut m&ms not only add a burst of color but also provide a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft vanilla cupcakes.
Is Making M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this dessert, the m&m's stuffed vanilla cupcakes recipe is moderately priced. The primary expenses stem from butter, sugar, and m&m's. Given the ingredients, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. This includes the cost of flour, eggs, sour cream, and other essentials. Considering the delightful outcome and the joy it brings, I would rate this recipe a solid 7 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Are M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
This M&M's stuffed vanilla cupcake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The high amounts of sugar, butter, and refined flour contribute to a calorie-dense treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. The inclusion of M&M's, which are essentially candy-coated chocolate, further adds to the sugar content. However, the recipe does incorporate some beneficial ingredients like eggs, which provide protein, and milk, which offers calcium and other nutrients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cupcake batter and frosting, or experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost and reduced fat content
- Opt for dark chocolate M&M's, which contain more antioxidants than milk chocolate
- Decrease the amount of frosting used or explore lighter frosting alternatives like whipped cream or meringue
- Incorporate fresh fruit as a topping or filling to add natural sweetness and fiber
Editor's Opinion on M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
This recipe offers a delightful twist on classic vanilla cupcakes by incorporating a surprise M&M's filling. The use of sour cream ensures a moist texture, while the peanut M&M's add a fun crunch and burst of flavor. The frosting is straightforward yet versatile, allowing for customization with food coloring. However, the batter might be dense due to the flour-to-liquid ratio, so ensure thorough mixing to avoid lumps. Overall, it's a playful and enjoyable treat perfect for parties or special occasions.
Enhance Your M&M’s Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with M&M's Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes
Why trust this M&M’s Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe:
This recipe combines the classic flavors of vanilla and peanut m&ms to create a delightful surprise in every bite. The use of sour cream ensures the cupcakes are moist and tender, while the buttercream frosting adds a rich, creamy finish. With detailed instructions and high-quality ingredients, this recipe is designed to deliver consistent and delicious results. Trust in the combination of tried-and-true baking techniques and the playful addition of m&ms to make these cupcakes a hit at any gathering.
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