A cupcake (also known as a fairy cake or bun) is a small cake designed to serve one person. It is usually baked in a small thin paper or aluminum cup, and frosting and other cake decorations may be added to complete the appearance. The term was first documented in 1828, and it is thought to have originated in the UK.

A cake that is baked in a cup like a muffin and filled with fruit, frosting or pastry cream for extra flavor. These cupcakes are popular in commercial bakeries, as well as at parties and other special events.

They are usually light and fluffy, with a soft and airy texture. They are made using a multi-stage mixing technique, and can be made in many different flavors. They are also sometimes filled with other desserts, such as ice cream, yogurt or chocolate sauce.

Often times, cupcakes are a way to celebrate a specific event or theme, but they can also be a great way to show someone that you care. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to make someone smile, consider baking a batch of these cupcakes to give to them.

For a business that is based on cupcakes, the main funding sources include personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. A professional business plan is also important, as the loan officer will want to be sure that you have a sound financial background and that you can pay back the loan.

As a dessert, cupcakes have been around for a long time, but the industry is still growing and hasn’t yet hit a cyclical downturn like so many other fads. According to Renee Brown, a former cupcake chef who now runs her own bakery, the industry is not due to crash any time soon.

Cupcakes are a sweet treat that is easy to make and is a perfect dessert for any occasion. They are fun to decorate and can be customized with all sorts of toppings, making them a great choice for parties.

You can easily find cupcake recipes online and in cookbooks. Most recipes include instructions for piping and decorating them with different icings and toppings. The key is to follow the recipe closely to ensure that your cupcakes are evenly and deliciously topped.

The best cupcakes are those that are incredibly moist and rich, with the right balance of flavor and texture. If you have a little practice, you’ll be able to master the art of cupcakes in no time at all.

If you are new to baking, start by learning how to make basic cake batters. These can be made with or without eggs, and they are the basis for many types of cupcakes. You can also experiment with various types of flour, milk and butter.

When you have mastered the basics, try adding your favorite frostings and fillings. You can make a variety of different kinds of cupcakes, from classic vanilla to exotic strawberry to decadent chocolate chip.