I remember this one sunny Sunday afternoon when the clouds finally cleared and the garden was just starting to bloom. I wanted to bake something that felt exactly like that moment. I pulled out my mixing bowls and decided to make these little treats for a tea party I was having with a few friends. There is just something so special about the way the soft yellow sponge looks against a white plate. These cupcakes are light and airy and the floral decorations make them look like they belong in a fancy boutique. Honestly I felt so proud when I set them out on the table and I know you will feel the same way too.

Why You Will Love These Pastel yellow cupcakes with daisy’s and pearls

You are going to absolutely adore these because they are just so cheerful. The soft yellow color is subtle and sweet and it really brightens up any dessert spread. What I love most is how the little edible pearls add a touch of sophistication that makes people think you spent hours in the kitchen. Even though they look super professional they are actually perfect for beginners. The design is simple enough that you cannot really mess it up but the end result is still stunning enough for a wedding shower or a birthday party.

Ingredients for Pastel yellow cupcakes with daisy’s and pearls

I like to make sure everything is at room temperature before I start. It really helps the batter come together smoothly without any lumps. Here is what you will need to grab from your pantry and the store.

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter which should be nice and softened
Fresh eggs
Whole milk
Alcohol-free vanilla flavoring
Baking powder and a tiny pinch of salt
Yellow gel based food coloring
White fondant for making those cute daisies
Edible sugar pearls

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to add a bit more moisture you can always add a splash of lemon juice or even a bit of apple juice to the batter. It gives it a tiny zing that goes great with the sweetness. For any other decorations that might need a setting agent I always suggest using beef-based gelatin alternatives instead of other types. If you do not have fondant you could even use small white candies for the petals but the fondant really gives it that elegant look we are going for.

How to Make Pastel yellow cupcakes with daisy’s and pearls

Making these is such a fun process and it does not take as long as you might think. From the moment you start mixing to the final pearl placement you are looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Most of that is just waiting for them to bake and cool so you can have a cup of tea while the oven does the hard work. We are going to make a simple batter tint it a lovely pastel shade and then get creative with the fondant.

Step-by-Step Instructions

I find it easiest to stay organized if I lay everything out on the counter first. Follow these steps and you will have perfect cupcakes in no time.

Start by preheating your oven and lining your cupcake tray with some pretty paper liners.
Grab a large bowl and cream your softened butter and sugar together until the mixture looks light and fluffy.
Add your eggs one at a time and make sure each one is mixed in well before adding the next then stir in your alcohol-free vanilla.
Slowly fold in your flour baking powder and salt while alternating with the milk until everything is just combined.
Dip a toothpick into your yellow gel coloring and add a tiny drop to the batter then stir it gently until you get that perfect pastel shade.
Fill your liners about two thirds full and bake them until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let them cool completely on a wire rack because you do not want your frosting to melt.
Once they are cold pipe on some yellow buttercream and then press your handmade fondant daisies and pearls right on top.

Tips for Perfect Pastel yellow cupcakes with daisy’s and pearls

One thing I learned the hard way is to never over-mix your batter. If you stir it too much the cupcakes can get a bit tough and we want them to stay soft and light. Also you have to be patient and wait for them to be totally cool before you even think about decorating. If the cake is still warm the pearls will slide right off. I highly recommend using a small plunger cutter for the daisies. It makes them all look exactly the same size and it is so much faster than trying to cut them out by hand.

Common Questions About Pastel yellow cupcakes with daisy’s and pearls

People often ask me how to keep the fondant daisies looking fresh. I usually make the flowers a day ahead of time and let them dry on a piece of parchment paper. Just do not put the finished cupcakes in the fridge for too long because the moisture can make the fondant get a little sticky. If you are worried about the color being too bright just start with a tiny amount of yellow gel. You can always add more but you cannot take it out once it is in there. These will stay delicious in an airtight container for about three days.

Nutritional Information

Here is a quick look at the estimated numbers for one of these decorated cupcakes.

Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 3g