Coconut Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting

Don't fall off your chair! I'm back! I know I've said it a couple of times but I really am sorry for not posting any new recipes for awhile. I had some surgery a couple of months ago. Recovering from that  and life with 4 kids and a husband is just hectic. I'm sure that I'm not telling you anything you don't already know.

Technically, I can't even take credit for this. Last Sunday my oldest who is graduating from high school this year was honored as a Governor's Scholar in Topeka. Let me take a minute to brag on Julie's senior daughter as well. Both of our girls are governors scholars, which means they are the top 1% of the graduating seniors in the state of Kansas. We are pretty proud moms!

While her dad and I were attending the ceremony with her, my 6th grade daughter called and wanted to make cupcakes. I knew this meant I would have a light coating of powered sugar all over my kitchen when we got home. However, I hate baking and she loves it so I want to encourage this. She used my basic cupcake and vanilla frosting an here is what she made.

Coconut Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
Makes about 20 cupcakes

For the cupcakes:
1/2  cup butter, softened
1  cup sugar
2  eggs
2  cups flour
1/2  teaspoon salt
2  teaspoons baking powder
1  cup milk
1  teaspoon vanilla
1/2  cup coconut flakes

For the frosting:
2  cups sifted powdered sugar
1/2  cup butter, softened
1  teaspoon vanilla
1-2  tablespoons milk
Additional coconut for garnish

For the cupcakes:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line muffin pans with cupcake liners. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir in the vanilla and the coconut. Bake for about 16-18 minutes.

For the frosting:
Cream the sugar, butter and vanilla. Add the milk to desired consistency. After frosting cupcakes sprinkle with additional coconut. 

Enjoy!

Kim