Happy Birthday (to Kristi & me)

My friend Kristi and I share the same birthday...same day, different years. We are textbook perfect Virgos:  independent, analytical, organized, loyal, and driven to perfection (you really should see a Virgo-cleaned house).  I am not into astrology, but I do find it very interesting that the two of us possess most of the Virgo characteristics. 

This week's recipe is for us!

Made with Pink 

via  Flickr

Birthday Cupcakes

1 package (18.5 ounces) plain butter recipe cake mix
1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese - room temperature
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup applesauce
1/2 cup buttermilk
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare muffin tins with liners.

Place the cake mix, cream cheese, sugar, applesauce, water, eggs, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Blend on low speed with an electric mixer for 30 seconds, until the ingredients are well blended, then stop the machine and scrape down the sides. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes more, scraping down the sides again if needed.  Fill cupcake liners 1/2 full.

Bake the cupcakes 15-18 minutes, checking frequently after 12 minutes. Cool completely. Frost with your favorite vanilla or chocolate buttercream.