Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the sweet simplicity of these classic Vanilla Cupcakes, perfectly baked to fluffy perfection and topped with a luscious buttercream frosting. Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or a sweet treat any day, these cupcakes are a timeless favorite that will bring joy to every occasion. Whether you're a baking novice or an experienced home cook, this easy recipe will have you whipping up a batch in no time.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-13T14:11:52.162Z

Vanilla Cupcakes have a way of bringing back fond memories of childhood celebrations. Their delightful flavor and moist texture make them a crowd-pleaser.

The Perfect Party Treat

Vanilla cupcakes are a delightful addition to any celebration. Their light and fluffy texture pairs perfectly with a rich buttercream frosting, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties and events. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or any joyous occasion, these cupcakes are sure to bring smiles to all faces. Not only do they taste fantastic, but their charming appearance also adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

These classic vanilla cupcakes can easily be customized to fit your party's theme. You can add food coloring to the frosting, sprinkle edible glitter, or even top them with themed decorations. The versatility of these cupcakes means they can complement any event, making them a standout choice for hosts looking to impress their guests.

Baking with Kids

Baking vanilla cupcakes is a fun and engaging activity for kids and parents alike. The straightforward steps involved in this recipe make it accessible for young bakers, providing a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about measuring, mixing, and baking. Watching the batter transform into fluffy cupcakes is not only satisfying but also encourages children to develop their culinary skills and confidence in the kitchen.

Encouraging creativity is another benefit of baking with children. Allow them to decorate their own cupcakes with colorful sprinkles, fruit, or other toppings, making each cupcake a unique creation. This activity fosters bonding time and creates lasting memories while instilling a love for baking from an early age.

Storing and Freezing Cupcakes

Properly storing your vanilla cupcakes is essential for maintaining their taste and texture. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will keep them fresh and delicious for you and your guests. If you prefer to bake ahead of time, these cupcakes can also be frozen to extend their shelf life.

To freeze cupcakes, individually wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Frost them after they've thawed for the best results, ensuring that every bite tastes just like fresh-baked goodness.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 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 pan with paper liners.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.

Bake

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting with buttercream.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla cupcakes!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your vanilla cupcakes, be sure to use room temperature ingredients. This includes your butter, eggs, and milk. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and a uniform texture in your cupcakes. Additionally, don't overmix your batter; mixing until just combined helps maintain a light and airy structure.

Another tip for great cupcakes is to fill the liners properly. Aim to fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without overflowing. This ensures that your cupcakes maintain their shape while baking, resulting in perfectly domed tops that are ideal for frosting.

Creative Variations

While classic vanilla cupcakes are a beloved choice, you can easily experiment with flavors to create something unique. For instance, try adding almond extract in place of some vanilla for a nutty twist, or fold in mini chocolate chips or fruit to the batter for extra flavor. These variations can turn your cupcakes into a delightful surprise for those who indulge.

You can also explore different types of frosting beyond the traditional buttercream. Cream cheese frosting or a whipped ganache can provide different textures and flavors, enhancing your cupcakes even further. Topping them with fresh fruit, nuts, or flavored syrups can also add a new dimension to your cupcakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour will give the cupcakes a lighter texture.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.