Strawberry Almond Cupcakes

I'm finally back!!!! I took about a 2-week break for finals, but I am happy to say that I am officially done with my first year of college!!! I know you might be thinking that these cupcakes look like they were meant for Valentine's day, and that is kind of true, but not quite. They look so lovey-dovey because it was my Valentine's birthday this past week, so of course the cupcakes needed to be sweet and romantic (and pink!!).

Strawberry Almond Cupcakes

Yields about 24

Cupcakes:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tbsp baking powder

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 1/2 cup almond milk

4 egg whites
1 1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter substitute

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 tsp almond extract

Frosting:

1 1/2 cups confectioner's sugar

1/2 cup vegetable shortening

2 tsp vanilla

1 to 2 tbsp almond milk

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cornstarch; set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together the almond milk and egg whites; set aside.

Beat the sugar and butter substitute with an electric mixer until all of the sugar is combined, then add the vanilla and almond extract.

While still beating, alternate adding half of the flour mixture, then half of the egg white/almond milk mixture until they are both completely combined. 

Fill cupcake cups halfway, and bake on 350 for 20-25 minutes.

Sooooo these cupcakes may have fallen a little...ok, they fell a lot. BUT they were even better this way, like seriously they were so moist and light...absolutely amazing! Like these were some of my favorite (non-chocolate, because everything chocolate is my favorite :)) cupcakes ever.

For the frosting, sift the confectioner's sugar over the shortening, and beat until they are combined. 

Add the vanilla, {any desired food coloring}, and the almond milk to reach your desired consistency.

Pipe with a star tip onto the cooled cupcakes.

I love piping cupcakes with a star tip, it always comes out so pretty!!! Top the cupcakes with whatever you like; I chose to cut and top with cute strawberry hearts :). 

I am so lucky to have found someone who gets me, and loves me no matter what. The love of my life is also my best friend, and I count myself blessed beyond measure for that. I have the sweetest, most loving and absolutely hilarious boyfriend in the whole world, and I am so grateful to have him in my life.

Happy Birthday, My Love! I love you with all of my heart <3.