Vanilla Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 350 and line a 24-cavity cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

2. In the bowl of a stand mixer dump the cake mix in and salt and give it a quick whisk to break up any clumps.

3. Add in the remaining ingredients and mix on medium until fully incorporated scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally.

4. Fill the cupcake liners up ⅔ of the way full.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs.

6. Let cool in cupcake pan for 10 minutes and then fully cool on a rack.

Vanilla Buttercream

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment beat butter and shortening on high until light and fluffy. This should take approximately 5-10 minutes.

2. Add the remaining ingredients and mix on low until fully combined.

3. Turn the mixer up to high and let beat for 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl when necessary. 

4. Optional: Add in desired food color and mix on low.

5. Decorate fully cooled cupcakes as desired. I used a Wilton 1M piping tip and the cutest Sprinkle Pop “Day Dreamer” sprinkles. Topped with a daffodil meringue or fun cupcake topper if desired. Enjoy!