Today, December 14th, is National Cupcake Day.

Cupcakes are small, individual cakes, that are often cooked in a thin paper or aluminium cup. There are also known as fairy cakes.

The earliest known record of cupcakes dates back to 1796, although this was just a description. The term itself was first seen in 1828.

Cupcakes, like normal cakes, can be decorated in many different ways, with icing and other toppings added. The cupcake itself can use most layer cake recipes for the batter. Flavourings and other things, such as chocolate, can be added to the mixture.

Cupcakes are often popular party foods, as they are suitable for just one person, so a plate of them can be put out. They also cook more quickly than larger cakes.

Image: Morguefile