She Strengthens

Sweet Success: Baking American Treats in the Heart of France

As an MBA student in the picturesque Champagne region of France, I’ve developed a passion for baking American treats for my international friends. There’s something irresistible about the simplicity and sweetness of these desserts, which stand out starkly from their French, Chinese, and Japanese counterparts. My latest creations? Delicious white cupcakes with a twist of vanilla bean, cream cheese, and cognac frosting, adorned with charming graduation-themed decorations.

The Perfect Recipe

These scrumptious cupcakes require a medium level of difficulty and can be achieved with the following ingredients:

• 3 Cups Flour (330g)
• 2.5 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup whole milk yogurt
• Dash of vanilla

Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 170°C or 350°F. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt in one bowl, while creaming the butter and sugar in another. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla, and alternate between the flour mixture and milk/yogurt until fully incorporated. Pour into cupcake tins and bake for 20 minutes, checking for doneness after 15 minutes.

Cream Cheese Frosting with a Twist

This decadent frosting is infused with vanilla bean and cognac, requiring:

• 1 stick butter
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 vanilla bean (divided and scraped)
• 2 tablespoons cognac
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• A bit of heavy cream

Blend the butter and cream cheese, then add vanilla, cognac, and vanilla bean. Beat until fluffy, adding heavy cream to achieve the perfect consistency.

Decorative Flair

Transform your cupcakes into graduation-themed masterpieces with these ideas:

• Roll small paper squares into scrolls and tie with bright yellow ribbon.
• Use fondant or pate d’almande to create graduation hats, complete with strings and straw-like details.

Voilà! Your delicious American treats are ready to impress your friends and fellow students in the heart of France.