Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 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 3/4 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These delightful Vanilla Cupcakes are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion! Light and fluffy, each bite is infused with rich vanilla flavor and topped with creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or just craving something sweet, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Simple to make and beautifully customizable, they are a must-try dessert for every baking enthusiast.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-11-17T07:19:59.436Z

These delightful Vanilla Cupcakes are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion!

Perfect for Any Celebration

Vanilla cupcakes are a timeless dessert that can elevate any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events. Their classic flavor appeals to people of all ages, making them an ideal choice for birthday parties, weddings, or holiday celebrations. The versatility of vanilla cupcakes allows you to customize them with various toppings and fillings, ensuring they will fit the theme of any event.

Moreover, these cupcakes can serve as a beautiful canvas for your creativity. Whether you choose vibrant icing, elegant decorations, or flavorful fillings, the possibilities are endless. You can personalize the cupcakes to match the color scheme of your event or surprise loved ones with their favorite toppings.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your vanilla cupcakes turn out perfectly, it's essential to accurately measure your ingredients. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precise measurements, resulting in consistent batter consistency. Additionally, room temperature ingredients, such as butter and eggs, allow for better incorporation, creating that light and fluffy texture we all adore.

Another crucial tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. While it may be tempting to mix until completely smooth, overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined; this will help maintain the cupcakes' airy texture. For added moisture, let the baked cupcakes cool completely before frosting.

Storage and Enjoyment

Storing your vanilla cupcakes properly is key to enjoying them at their best. Keep the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them if you want to extend their freshness. If you’ve topped your cupcakes with frosting, it’s best to store them in the fridge to prevent the frosting from melting. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Cupcakes are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing. Pack them in cute boxes or containers when bringing them to gatherings so everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. Their portable nature makes them an excellent option for lunchboxes, picnics, or unexpected guests. With vanilla cupcakes, you'll always have a delightful dessert ready to impress.

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 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

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

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Combine Mixtures

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

Fill Cupcake Liners

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting with your favorite vanilla frosting.

Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cupcakes!

Common Variations

While vanilla cupcakes are delightful on their own, there are numerous variations to explore. You can add chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious chocolate surprise or swirl in fruit preserves for added flavor. Consider experimenting with almond or coconut extracts to create unique flavor profiles that will leave your guests eager for more.

If you'd like to make these cupcakes a bit healthier, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. This substitution will not only add a nutty flavor but also a slight nutritional boost. You can also swap out granulated sugar for a natural sweetener such as honey or maple syrup.

Frosting Ideas

The frosting is where you can truly let your creativity shine! While the classic vanilla buttercream is a favorite, consider trying cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with vanilla. For a lighter option, whipped cream frosting is an excellent choice that complements the sweetness of the cupcakes without overwhelming it.

For added flair, consider using colors and flavors in your frosting. You can infuse buttercream with citrus zest, cocoa powder, or even lavender for a unique treat. Additionally, using piping bags with various tips allows you to design beautiful swirls and patterns, elevating the aesthetic of your cupcakes for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor instead of vanilla?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract with almond extract or citrus zest for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

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