Christmas Cupcakes

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 large eggs

Icing

4 ounces butter (8 table spoons)
1 1/2 cups icing sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Decorations

colored crystal sugar
candy sprinkles
candy
marshmallow

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Line cupcake pans with paper liners.
3. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add shortening, milk, and vanilla.
5. Beat for 1 minute on medium speed.
6. Scrape side of bowl with a spatula.
7. Add eggs to the mixture.
8. Beat for 1 minute on medium speed.
9. Scrape bowl again.
10. Beat on high speed for 1 minute 30 seconds until well mixed.
11. Spoon cupcake batter into paper liners until 1/2 to 2/3 full.
12. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
13. Cool 5 minutes in pans then remove and place on wire racks to cool completely.
14. Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost and decorate as you desire. Let your imagination run wild!