Prep: 10 min Baking the cupcakes: 18-20 minutes Frosting: 10-15 minutes Total time:40-45 min Servings: approx 6 cupcakes    Ingredients: **For the Cupcakes: **

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• Green food coloring (adjust based on desired color)

**For the Frosting:**

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
• Edible green glitter or  sprinkles for decoration

Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven:**

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

2. **Make the Cupcake Batter:**

   - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and baking soda.    - Add the softened butter and beat on medium speed until the mixture is crumbly.    - In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and green food colouring. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.

3. **Fill the Cupcake Liners:**

   Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

4. **Bake the Cupcakes:**

   Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. **Prepare the Frosting:**

   - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.    - Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low until combined. Add the heavy cream  and beat on medium speed until fluffy.

6. **Frost the Cupcakes:**

   Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the green buttercream. You can use a piping bag for a decorative finish.

7. **Decorate:**

   Top the frosted cupcakes with shamrock sprinkles, edible glitter or other festive decorations if desired.

8. **Serve and Enjoy:**

Tips: Be sure to let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting them to prevent the frosting from melting. If you're short on time, consider refrigerating the cupcakes to speed up the cooling process before frosting.