Vanilla cupcake attempt #3

My sister and I are in search of the perfect vanilla cupcake. Once we find "it" we'll move onto another flavor... and another... until we're confident enough to sell a batch or two, whenever that may be. If you're near enough, there's a good chance you'll get to sample a batch along the way.
So tonight was the third recipe I've tried. Last month, Em and I tried a recipe from New York's Magnolia Bakery. It wasn't moist or sweet enough for us. Next up was a "Classic Cupcake" recipe I found on foodtv.com. We even made the lemon meringue icing. It was definitely better and the icing was light and fresh, but not something you'd want that often...
You learn as you go. As you can see in the photo above, during the classic cupcake attempt I learned the importance of letting the cupcakes cool completely... and then some before you ice them. Or else.
Tonight I learned what happens when you have the best ingredients. And you measure everything perfectly. Poured the batter. Perfectly. Then I started to clean. And saw the eggs I forgot to add to the batter. oops. End of story, the middle of each cupcake caved in, the edges burned (second pic). Not so good.
Fortunately I had enough ingredients to repeat the whole process and ended up with my best batch yet! I changed the original recipe enough to call it "my own" and will definitely try them again soon. Sadly Derrick and I can only have one, the rest are for a co-worker of his, Kristina, that's moving to VA. The decorating theme will be "Virginia is for Lovers" - it's been the state's slogan or marketing gig since the 60's. In fact, the heart they used after the word "Lovers" inspired New York's famous "I 'heart' NY" shirts! Yes, I did research VA fast facts for cupcake ideas. I didn't think "the first Thanksgiving" or the "first peanut crop" could inspire cute cupcakes.
Enough trivia for the day. Hopefully I'll have a 'nice' pic to put up after I decorate tomorrow.
By the way, the Next Food Network Star finale is tonight... hope you're watching!