Black Pepper Cup Cakes

These cupcakes are a great simple
dessert when serving a pork roast.
The pepper compliments the pork.

Ingredients:
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
2 tablespoons ground black pepper

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Line cupcake pans with paper liners.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder,
and salt in a large mixing bowl.
Add shortening, milk, and vanilla.
Beat for 1 minute on medium speed.
Scrape side of bowl with a spatula.
Add eggs to the mixture.
Beat for 1 minute on medium speed.
Scrape bowl again.
Beat on high speed for 2 minutes.
Spoon cupcake batter into
paper liners until 2/3 full.
Sprinkle top liberally with pepper.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or
until toothpick inserted
in center comes out clean.
Cool 5 minutes in pans then
remove and place on wire racks to cool.

Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost with your favorite frosting recipe or decorate as you desire.