We're kicking off our Moms Council with a segment called Moms Talk, and our first recipe exchange. Haven't heard of the newly-formed council just yet? We're calling every day Momsday on Patch. It's easy to join -- read about it here.

There are an abundance of treats to buy this weekend to show your love. Why not make love on your own with this very simple cupcake recipe? The decorating is up to you. Have fun and feel better about fresh ingredients.

Vanilla Cupcakes (Three Ways)

Ingredients:

3 cups flour

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

dash of salt

3 eggs

1 1/2 c light cream

1 stick soft butter

dash of vanilla (first batch)

dash of peppermint (second batch)

dash coconut flavor (third batch)

little bit of red food coloring in one of the batches to make cake pink

a lot of red food coloring in one batch to make cake red

Directions:

Mix each batch for 3 minutes on high (batter is thick)

Bake 350 degrees for about 20 minutes

Let cool and frost with your favorite frosting recipe. Add the dye and decorations that suit your fancy.

We made icing with 4 cups confectioners sugar; dash vanilla; 1/4 c whole milk, stick soft butter, half loaf of cream cheese or 4 ounces softened. Whip together and add food coloring as you like.

Want to share a recipe for next week? E-mail andrea.bosco@patch.com.