Yellow Cupcakes

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
2. 2
   Add unsweetened cocoa powder to flour before sifting.
3. 3
   In a small bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. 4
   In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.
5. 5
   Gradually beat in granulated sugar; beat 2 minutes until fluffy.
6. 6
   Beat in eggs one at a time until well blended; beat in vanilla.
7. 7
   Beat in flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk, just until smooth.
8. 8
   Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
9. 9
   Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly pressed.
10. 10
    Let cool.
11. 11
    Top with frosting.
12. 12
    To make Lemon Cupcakes: Prepare Yellow Cupcakes, omitting vanilla.
13. 13
    Add 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest and 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract.
14. 14
    To make Red Velvet Cupcakes: Prepare Yellow Cupcakes, adding 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder to flour mixture before sifting.
15. 15
    Stir 1 tablespoon red food coloring and 1 teaspoon vinegar into buttermilk.