Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the simple pleasure of homemade vanilla cupcakes, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2025-12-21T05:45:56.641Z

These vanilla cupcakes are a classic treat that everyone loves. With a light and fluffy texture, they’re perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence. Whether topped with buttercream icing or enjoyed plain, they never fail to impress.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Classic vanilla flavor that's always a crowd-pleaser
Versatile base for endless frosting and topping options

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Vanilla cupcakes are the quintessential dessert, suitable for birthdays, weddings, or just a cozy afternoon snack. Their light and fluffy texture makes them irresistible, while their classic vanilla flavor appeals to people of all ages. Whether you're celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy to your table.

These delightful treats are incredibly versatile. You can dress them up with a variety of frostings—from rich chocolate buttercream to tangy cream cheese icing. You can also top them with fresh fruits, sprinkles, or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance. This adaptability allows you to customize your cupcakes to perfectly fit the theme of any celebration.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them blend more easily and creates a smoother batter. Additionally, be careful not to overmix your batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, which is not the desired outcome when you want them light and airy.

Another key tip is to use an ice cream scoop to portion the batter into the cupcake liners. This ensures even distribution and helps you achieve uniform baking. Remember to check your cupcakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary, so keeping an eye on them is crucial to prevent overbaking.

Storing Your Vanilla Cupcakes

If you have leftover cupcakes, proper storage is essential to maintain their freshness. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. Once thawed, you can frost them or enjoy them plain. This way, you can savor the taste of homemade vanilla cupcakes even weeks after baking!

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 baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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 to have all your ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream 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. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

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

Fill the Muffin Tin

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

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

Cool and Frost

Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting with your favorite buttercream icing.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla cupcakes!

Frosting Variations

While classic vanilla buttercream is a favorite, don't hesitate to experiment with different frosting flavors. You can easily add cocoa powder to create a chocolate version or incorporate fruit purees for a fresh twist. For a refreshing taste, consider lemon or lime zest in your buttercream, which will complement the vanilla flavor beautifully.

If you're looking for a lighter option, whipped cream or cream cheese frosting can also be delicious choices. These frostings offer a unique texture and flavor that pair well with the sweetness of the cupcakes. Try topping your cupcakes with a simple whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful summer dessert.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your vanilla cupcakes, presentation is key. Use decorative cupcake stands or tiered platters to create an eye-catching display. You can also garnish each cupcake with fresh fruit or chocolate shavings for added flair. A touch of edible glitter can elevate the appearance for special occasions.

Pair your cupcakes with a complementary beverage for a complete treat. A cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk makes for a delightful combination. For a more festive touch, serve them with a sweet dessert wine or sparkling drink during celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ Can I freeze the cupcakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.

→ How can I make these cupcakes chocolate-flavored?

Simply replace 1/3 cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate version.