Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a large 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 another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Mix until just combined and smooth.
If desired, add food coloring to achieve your preferred hue.
Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.