Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed sweet potato with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender. Let cool.
- Once cooled, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Set aside.
Make the Cupcakes:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Fill each liner about 1/3 full with the cupcake batter.
- Spoon a teaspoon of the sweet potato filling into the center of each cupcake, then cover with more batter until the liners are 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat the 1 cup of butter on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low until combined. Increase speed to high and beat until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Gradually add heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Beat on high for an additional minute.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Once cupcakes are cool, frost them with the vanilla frosting using a piping bag or a knife.
- Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch of elegance.
These Sweet Potato Stuffed Vanilla Cupcakes offer a harmonious blend of flavors that are both comforting and indulgent. The surprise sweet potato filling adds a moist, flavorful twist that makes these cupcakes stand out from the rest. Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite!