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Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

4.5 from 118 reviews

Delight in these classic Vanilla Cupcakes featuring a moist, tender crumb and topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla buttercream frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a simple treat, these cupcakes combine the rich flavor of vanilla with a soft, buttery texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Cupcake Batter

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 eggs (room temperature)
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

  • 2 cups confectioners sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside this dry mixture for later use.
  3. Beat Eggs and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light yellow and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a light texture.
  4. Add Butter and Vanilla: While continuing to mix at a slow speed, gradually pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract to combine thoroughly without deflating the batter.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly mix in the milk alternated with the dry ingredients, a little at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Mix until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
  6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cupcake liner about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
  7. Bake the Cupcakes: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cupcakes spring back when gently pressed.
  8. Cool the Cupcakes: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and place the tin on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
  9. Prepare the Frosting: In a clean bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and confectioners sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  10. Add Flavor and Cream: Add the vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream to the butter-sugar mixture, then mix again until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
  11. Frost the Cupcakes: Transfer the frosting to a piping bag and decorate the cooled cupcakes to your desired style.

Notes

  • Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense cupcakes.
  • Butter should be melted but not hot when added to eggs.
  • Use fresh baking powder for optimal rising results.
  • Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Optional: Add food coloring or sprinkles to customize your cupcakes.

Keywords: vanilla cupcakes, classic cupcakes, vanilla buttercream, easy cupcake recipe, homemade cupcakes, dessert baking