Easy Butterfly Cakes

why make this recipe

Easy Butterfly Cakes are a delightful treat that add a touch of magic to any occasion. They are charming little cakes that look impressive but are surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for kids’ parties, afternoon tea, or just a sweet snack at home, these cakes are filled with light whipped cream or buttercream and topped with a dusting of icing sugar. Not only do they taste great, but they also make a fun activity to enjoy with family or friends.

how to make Easy Butterfly Cakes

Ingredients:

• 125g unsalted butter, softened
• 125g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 125g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk
• Icing sugar for dusting
• Whipped cream or buttercream for filling
• Fresh berries for decoration (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with paper cases.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Sift in the self-raising flour and fold in gently along with the vanilla extract and milk until combined.
5. Divide the mixture evenly among the prepared cases, filling each about two-thirds full.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, use a knife to cut out a small circle from the top of each cake and fill with whipped cream or buttercream. Replace the tops to resemble butterfly wings.
9. Dust with icing sugar and decorate with fresh berries if desired.

how to serve Easy Butterfly Cakes

Serve these delightful cakes on a pretty platter, perfect for sharing with family and friends. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For added flair, you can place them on a cake stand or add some fresh flowers around them for a festive touch.

how to store Easy Butterfly Cakes

These cakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

tips to make Easy Butterfly Cakes

• Make sure the butter is softened before starting to create a light and fluffy batter.
• You can experiment with different flavors by adding lemon zest or cocoa powder to the batter.
• For a fun twist, try adding a layer of fruit jam along with the cream filling.

variation

For a chocolate version, simply swap out 25g of the flour for cocoa powder. You can also fill the cakes with chocolate buttercream instead of vanilla.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular flour instead of self-raising flour?
Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour, but be sure to add 1 tsp of baking powder for every 125g of flour you use.

2. How do I make dairy-free butterfly cakes?
You can use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk alternative. Ensure the filling is also dairy-free, using coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping.

3. Can I freeze Easy Butterfly Cakes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the cooled cakes individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for about a month. Just thaw before serving.