Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
If desired, add food coloring and mix until evenly incorporated.
Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to cool completely before frosting.