Here’s a simple recipe for dried fruit cupcakes:
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries, apricots)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and eggs until creamy. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Stir in the dried fruit, vanilla extract, and nuts (if using).
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
You can also add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to give the cupcakes an extra boost of flavor. Enjoy!
Here are some frosting ideas:
Cream cheese frosting with dried cranberries
Brown sugar frosting with chopped nuts
Honey buttercream frosting with dried apricots
Let me know if you have any questions or if you’d like any variations on this recipe!
Dried fruits offer numerous benefits, including:
1. Rich in nutrients: Dried fruits are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
2. Long shelf life: Dried fruits can be stored for months without refrigeration.
3. Convenient snack: Dried fruits are a healthy and easy-to-carry snack option.
4. Supports digestive health: Dried fruits like dates, apricots, and prunes are natural laxatives.
5. Boosts energy: Dried fruits like dates, apricots, and raisins are natural energy boosters.
6. May help lower cholesterol: Some dried fruits like dates, apricots, and prunes have been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol.
7. Supports healthy bones: Dried fruits like dates, apricots, and prunes are rich in boron, which supports bone health.
8. May help regulate blood sugar: Some dried fruits like dates and apricots have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels.
9. Supports healthy gut bacteria: Dried fruits like dates, apricots, and prunes contain prebiotic fiber.
10. Versatile: Dried fruits can be used in baking, cooking, or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.