Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously light and fluffy, these Vanilla Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:48:33.962Z

These Vanilla Cupcakes are a classic treat that everyone loves. With their light texture and rich vanilla flavor, they're a delightful addition to any dessert table or celebration.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any festive occasion

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Vanilla Cupcakes are an absolute classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a wedding, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cupcakes are the perfect choice. Their light and fluffy texture combined with a rich vanilla flavor makes them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Plus, they can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making them a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

What sets these cupcakes apart is their ability to bring people together. Imagine a gathering of friends and family, laughter filling the air, and a plate of freshly baked vanilla cupcakes at the center of the table. Each bite is a delightful experience, leaving everyone craving more. With the right frosting and decorations, you can customize them to fit any theme, adding a personal touch to your celebrations.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Vanilla Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, start with room temperature ingredients. This means letting your eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before you begin. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and contributing to that light, fluffy texture you desire. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour correctly; spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cupcakes.

Another crucial tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no flour streaks. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes, which is the opposite of what you want. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Start checking your cupcakes a couple of minutes early to ensure they don’t overbake.

Frosting Variations and Ideas

While vanilla buttercream is a classic choice for frosting your vanilla cupcakes, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can easily infuse your frosting with different flavors like almond or lemon for an exciting twist. Adding a pinch of cocoa powder can turn your vanilla buttercream into a delightful chocolate version, pleasing chocolate lovers at any gathering.

For a fun visual element, consider using food coloring to create vibrant frosting that matches your party theme. Swirling two colors together can give your cupcakes a beautiful marbled effect. And don’t forget about toppings! Sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh fruit can elevate your cupcakes from simple to stunning, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons milk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Fill the Cupcake Liners

Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them with your favorite vanilla buttercream.

Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cupcakes!

Storing Your Cupcakes

Proper storage is key to keeping your Vanilla Cupcakes fresh and delicious. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, especially if they’re frosted. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you want to prepare your cupcakes in advance, you can bake them a day or two ahead of time and freeze them. Just make sure they are completely cool before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Pairing Suggestions

Vanilla Cupcakes pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic pairing, consider a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the cupcakes complement the creamy texture of the milk and the boldness of the coffee, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.

If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous, try pairing your cupcakes with a sweet dessert wine or a fruity sparkling beverage. The effervescence and sweetness can enhance the vanilla flavor and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich buttercream frosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce, mashed bananas, or a commercial egg replacer as a substitute.