Russell

Russell, the Wilderness Explorer that Carl unwillingly allows to join him, is a young kid and his exuberant nature opens up Carl who has closed himself off from the world since Ellie's death. Cupcakes are a great way to incorporate kids into the baking process and I have a feeling Russell would enjoy cupcakes as much as any other kid.

Tomorrow is the Fourth of July and I was going to join my family with our annual picnic at Golden Gate Park. There were going to be a lot of kids at the event as the invitation included extended family as well. I decided to make a batch of plain vanilla cupcakes for the kids to decorate. I pre-made batches of frosting in several different colors so the kids could go crazy decorating. I also went to Michael's to pick up sprinkles in different shapes. I'll be bringing nuts and mini chocolate chips as well. I figure some of the older kids would want to join in on the fun so I'll probably be making more batches of these vanilla cupcakes. Cupcakes really allow the creative juices to flow.

Ingredients for Vanilla Cupcakes

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 egg whites from large eggs
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, shortening, milk and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Mix at low speed for 2 minutes. Scrape bowl. Add egg whites and mix at high speed until fluffy and smooth, approximately 2 minutes. Fill liners 1/2 to 2/3 full of batter. Do not overfill. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pans then remove from pan, and place on wire racks to cool completely.

Ingredients for Vanilla Buttercream:

• 2 cups (230 grams) confectioners sugar (icing or powdered sugar), sifted
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2tablespoons milkor light cream
• Assorted food colors(if desired)

Directions:

In an electric mixer, or with a hand mixer, cream the butter until smooth and well blended. Add the vanilla extract. With the mixer on low speed, gradually beat in the sugar. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the milk and beat on high speed until frosting is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Add a little more milk or sugar, if needed. Tint the frosting with desired food color.

Thoughts?

Do you like my interpretation of Russell? What other kid-friendly recipes are there? Leave a comment below!