Vanilla Cupcakes

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful and fluffy, these vanilla cupcakes are the perfect treat for any occasion. Simple to make and utterly delicious!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2025-12-21T05:30:57.839Z

These vanilla cupcakes are a classic favorite for a reason. With their light and airy texture, they are perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence any day of the week. Topped with a creamy frosting, they are sure to please anyone who takes a bite.

        Why You'll Love These Vanilla Cupcakes
        Fluffy and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile base perfect for any frosting or filling
Simple ingredients you likely have on hand

      

The Perfect Cupcake for Any Celebration

Vanilla cupcakes are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Their light and airy texture, combined with a sweet vanilla flavor, makes them an ideal choice for birthdays, weddings, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet craving, these cupcakes are sure to please everyone at the table.

These delightful cupcakes can easily be customized to suit any theme or palate. From colorful sprinkles to themed frosting, you can transform these simple vanilla cupcakes into a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table. With endless possibilities for decoration, they also serve as a wonderful canvas for creativity, allowing you to express your personal style.

Simple Steps for Flawless Cupcakes

Making vanilla cupcakes is not only straightforward but also a fun activity to enjoy with family and friends. The process starts with basic ingredients that most home bakers already have on hand, making it an accessible choice for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of cupcakes that are fluffy, moist, and full of flavor.

One of the secrets to achieving that perfect cupcake texture lies in the creaming method. By properly creaming the butter and sugar together, you incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a light and airy cupcake. Pay attention to this step, as it sets the foundation for your delightful treat.

Storing and Serving Your Cupcakes

Once your vanilla cupcakes are baked and frosted, it's essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing the unfrosted cupcakes. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When it comes to serving, these vanilla cupcakes are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or serve them alongside a cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. You can also experiment with different frostings and toppings, from classic buttercream to fruity glazes, to create a delightful experience every time.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 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 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting for a smooth baking experience!

Steps

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine the Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

Fill the Cupcake Liners

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

Bake the Cupcakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

To ensure your cupcakes rise beautifully, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can be beneficial for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added; this can lead to dense cupcakes instead of the desired light and fluffy texture.

Another helpful tip is to rotate your muffin tin halfway through the baking time. Ovens can have hot spots, so turning the tray helps achieve even baking. Keep an eye on your cupcakes as they bake, and do the toothpick test a minute or two before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.

Popular Variations

While vanilla cupcakes are delicious on their own, you can easily elevate their flavors. Consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter for a refreshing twist. For a richer flavor, try incorporating almond extract in place of some of the vanilla extract. These subtle changes can add depth and uniqueness to your cupcakes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with fillings. A dollop of fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or even a cream cheese center can make each bite even more delightful. This added surprise will impress your guests and give the classic vanilla cupcake a fun, modern twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the baked cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with vegetable oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

→ How do I make the frosting fluffy?

Beat the butter until it's light and fluffy before adding the powdered sugar for a smoother texture.