Introduction
Cupcakes are one of the most beloved treats worldwide, perfect for any celebration or even just to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for birthdays, parties, or just want a delicious homemade dessert, this vanilla cupcake recipe will become your go-to.
With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, you can create a batch of moist, fluffy cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting. This recipe is easy to follow and ensures that your cupcakes turn out perfectly every time. Let’s dive into this classic vanilla cupcake recipe that’s rich in flavor, with a light and tender crumb, and a buttery finish.
Ingredients for Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
Before we start baking, it’s important to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for a light texture)
1 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder (to help the cupcakes rise)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (adds extra lift for fluffiness)
1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
Wet Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature for smooth mixing)
2 large eggs (room temperature for even blending)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for the best flavor)
1/2 cup buttermilk (adds moisture and richness)
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for that moist, tender crumb)
Optional Toppings:
Buttercream frosting (recipe below)
Sprinkles or chocolate chips (for extra fun)
Fresh strawberries (to add a fruity twist)
Equipment Needed:
- Cupcake pan
- Paper liners
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Sifter
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
How to Make Moist and Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes (Step-by-Step)
Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cupcake pan with paper liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your cupcakes have a soft, light texture.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender, airy cupcake crumb.
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add in the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making your cupcakes soft and fluffy. After both eggs are mixed in, add the vanilla extract for that classic vanilla flavor.
Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. The buttermilk adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes, making them extra soft and tender.
Add Vegetable Oil
For a moist and tender texture, fold in the vegetable oil at the end. This ensures your cupcakes stay fresh for days.
Fill the Cupcake Liners
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Fill each about two-thirds full to allow room for the cupcakes to rise.
Bake
Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and allow it to bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake emerges clean. Exercise caution to avoid overbaking, as this may lead to dry cupcakes.
Cool
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
The Perfect Buttercream Frosting Recipe
While the cupcakes cool, let’s prepare the buttercream frosting. This simple homemade frosting is rich, creamy, and pairs perfectly with the vanilla cupcakes.
Ingredients for Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted for a smooth texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (for desired consistency)
- Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat the butter: In a spacious mixing bowl, use a medium speed to beat the softened butter until it achieves a creamy and smooth consistency, which should take approximately 2 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar: Slowly introduce the powdered sugar, measuring one cup at a time, while mixing on a low speed until the mixture is completely blended. Be sure to sift the powdered sugar to avoid any lumps.
- Mix in vanilla and cream: Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency. If the frosting be excessively thick, ass additional cream. Conversely, if it is too thin, introduce a small amount of powdered sugar.
- Whip for fluffiness: Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and whip the frosting for 3-4 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and creamy.
Assembling and Decorating Your Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
Now that your cupcakes are cooled and the buttercream frosting is ready, it’s time to assemble and decorate.
Step 1: Frost the Cupcakes
Using a piping bag or a spatula, generously frost each cupcake with buttercream. Start from the center and swirl your way out for a bakery-style finish.
Step 2: Add Toppings
For a fun and colorful twist, top your frosted cupcakes with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. If you prefer a fruity flavor, add fresh strawberries or a dollop of strawberry jam on top.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
These cupcakes are perfect for any celebration, including birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat for yourself. Their light, fluffy texture combined with the rich, creamy frosting makes them absolutely irresistible!
Tips for the Best Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature before use. This ensures the ingredients mix evenly and the cupcakes rise properly.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in dense, tough cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and baking soda helps to aerate the batter and create a soft, light cupcake.
- Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and richness, making your cupcakes extra tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, a simple alternative can be created by combining 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Frost After Cooling: It is essential to allow the cupcakes to cool entirely before applying the frosting. If you frost warm cupcakes, the buttercream will melt and slide off.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate vanilla cupcake recipe! With a moist, fluffy texture and a deliciously buttery flavor, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any celebration. Plus, the simple ingredients and easy method make them perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
So, whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a special occasion, or just a fun weekend treat, these cupcakes are sure to delight. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Cupcake Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Simply keep them in a sealed container at room temperature. The cupcakes will stay moist and soft for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to frost them later, store the buttercream in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before using.
Can I Use this Recipe for a Cake?
Absolutely! This vanilla cupcake recipe can be adapted to make a cake. Simply pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Can I Make These Cupcakes Vegan?
To make vegan cupcakes, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a plant-based butter and milk alternative.
How Do I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
To preserve leftover cupcakes, place them in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for a maximum of three days. If you have frosted cupcakes, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
