Post #1....This calls for Cupcakes!

Happy 1st blog post everyone, erm... or no one depending on numerous circumstances. To mark the occasion, I made cupcakes! Specifically, Vanilla cupcakes filled with a fig and balsamic compote topped off with a whipped cream cheese icing and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Long and tedious, I know, but they turned out so good!

Now, I like recipes to be as short and sweet as possible, so I trimmed this one down to size.

1. Make and vanilla cake you want; your favorite, grandma's recipe, even a box mix. As long as you like it, go on ahead. I wont judge :D
2. For the compote cut up 8oz of figs into small pieces, about 1/4 inch in diameter. I used dried, but feel free to use fresh if they're in season or if you're lucky enough to have a fig tree. Add them to a small pot with 1/2 cup honey, 1-2 cups of water ( if you like a runny-er compote add more water), and a tablespoon of good balsamic vinegar. A dash of cinnamon is also applicable. Heat on low until the figs soften and the mixture becomes gooey and delicious. Beware not to burn and turn it into a candied-fig mess.....no reason for bringing this up by the way...haha. If you want more information on compotes, the internet is your friend!       * Be sure to let it cool before you fill the cupcakes*
3.  The caramel that I made wasn't a "real" caramel. I didn't have a lot of butter on hand and couldn't afford a mistake, but this quick and easy caramel from foodnetwork is amazing and tastes like the real thing. Its also good on pancakes....again, no reason for bringing this up.... just add an extra little pinch of salt, this cupcake is about balanced flavors and well, salted caramel is the shiznits. thttp://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/easy-caramel-sauce-recipe.html

1. The frosting is also a recipe I borrowed, but I've used it countless times and it is divine. BUT instead of granulated sugar, use powdered sugar, its better to use if you're planning on piping the icing on in a fancy swirl or something. http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/easy-caramel-sauce-recipe.html
2. Then, all that's left to do is carve out the center of the cupcakes (save the flat top so you can cover up the compote), fill with what will be your new favorite fruit mixture, and ice! 

And there you have it! These are truly one of the best cupcakes I've ever made, and were inspired by the best gelato I have ever eaten-Thank you so much Florence, Italy for having a gelato festival!!!! Since this is my first time doing something like this, be sure to give me any (polite) feedback. If you want more pictures or exact recipes or the like, just let me know and I'll do some tweeking.