Starlight Cupcakes

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup shortening

(half margarine or butter, if desired) -- softened 1 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 eggs

Heat oven to 350F degrees.

Beat all ingredients in large mixer bowl on low speed, scraping bowl constantly, 30 seconds. Beat on high speed, scraping bowl frequently, 3 minutes.

Pour batter into paper-lined medium muffin cups, filling each about half full. Bake 20 minutes.