Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
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 3/4 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful Vanilla Cupcakes that are light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:35:53.688Z

These Vanilla Cupcakes are a classic treat that everyone loves! Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet snack, they are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite frosting.

        Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Delicious vanilla aroma that fills your kitchen
Versatile for any occasion with endless frosting possibilities

      

Perfect for Any Celebration

These Vanilla Cupcakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, wedding, or just a casual get-together, these cupcakes can elevate any occasion. Their classic flavor and light texture make them a favorite among all age groups. You can easily customize them with different frosting options or sprinkles to match your theme or personal preference.

The beauty of these cupcakes lies in their simplicity. While they are delightful on their own, they serve as a perfect canvas for creativity. From vibrant buttercream to elegant fondant, the options for decorating are endless. This makes them ideal for bakers who love to experiment with flavors and designs.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Vanilla Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, here are some essential baking tips. First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and a fluffier texture in your cupcakes. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you combine the dry and wet ingredients; mixing just until combined will yield the best results.

Another tip is to use an ice cream scoop to fill your cupcake liners. This ensures that each cupcake is filled evenly, resulting in uniform baking. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Start checking your cupcakes a couple of minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Vanilla Cupcakes are frosted and ready to serve, you can enjoy them right away or store them for later. To keep them fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve their freshness longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

When it comes to serving, these cupcakes pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. They are delicious with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. For a fun twist, try serving them with a scoop of ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert experience. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these Vanilla Cupcakes are sure to be a hit!

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 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then 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

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

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Variations to Try

While classic vanilla is always a crowd-pleaser, you can easily put your own spin on these cupcakes. Consider adding chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even a dash of lemon zest to the batter for a unique flavor twist. If you want to take it a step further, try incorporating different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to create a fragrant and delightful variation.

Another fun idea is to make mini cupcakes for a bite-sized treat. Just adjust the baking time to around 10-12 minutes, and you’ll have adorable little cupcakes perfect for parties or gatherings. Get creative with your toppings, and you can even serve them on a platter for a delightful dessert table.

Making Ahead

If you're planning for an event, you can make these Vanilla Cupcakes ahead of time. Bake the cupcakes a day prior and store them in an airtight container. Frost them the day of your event to ensure the frosting stays fresh and perfect. This not only saves you time but also allows you to focus on other aspects of your gathering.

For an even more convenient option, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes. Just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature and frost as desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

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

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

→ What other flavors can I add?

You can add cocoa powder for chocolate cupcakes or lemon zest for a citrus twist.