Just-for-fun Cupcakes

This batch of cupcakes came about as I wanted to try something simple and fun for Oggie's half-birthday, not that he cares, but, Ana might enjoy it... and, as usual, I looked in Suzanna Tee's Cupcakes book for inspiration. This is based on her birthday party cupcakes recipe. Rather than fancy frosting, I made a cream cheese frosting that doubled as a spread as well for toast and bagel.

Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
4 Tbsp butter
1 cup superfine sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 Tbsp canola oil - optional - adjust quantity so the batter is the right consistency - just a little thicker than pancake batter
some colorful confetti and stars - I use the Betty Crocker cake decoration items

frosting: plain cream cheese, home-made raspberry jam

Preparation

1. Heat the oven to 350°F; place paper baking cases in a muffin pan handy; this makes about 12 regular size cupcakes
2. Combine the cupcake ingredients and beat with an electric whisk till smooth and uniform
3. Spoon into the paper baking cases evenly to get about 12 cupcakes; bake for about 15-20 minutes till golden brown and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
4. Frosting: start with half a cup of cream cheese and quarter of a cup of jam and beat with an electric whisk till smooth and a little stiff; add more jam or cream cheese to preferred taste and consistency as needed
5. Allow the cupcakes to cool, apply frosting on top before serving; top with some confetti/stars/sprinkles if desired