Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
Description
These Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes are soft, moist, and bursting with vanilla flavor. They have a tender crumb and a light, airy texture that pairs perfectly with buttercream frosting or any topping of your choice. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures perfect cupcakes every time, making them great for birthdays, parties, or any special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
For the Cupcakes:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternate Dry & Wet: Gradually mix in half the dry ingredients, then milk, then the remaining dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
- Fill Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about â…” full.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat Butter: Beat butter until creamy (about 2 minutes).
- Add Sugar: Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add Vanilla & Cream: Mix in vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk. Add more if needed for a fluffy texture.
- Frost Cupcakes: Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs, butter, and milk for a smooth batter.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing leads to dense cupcakes—mix until just combined.
- Baking Powder Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
- Cupcake Liners: Use high-quality liners to prevent sticking.
- Frosting Variations: Add food coloring, lemon zest, or cocoa powder for a twist.
Servings & Storage
- Yields: 12 standard cupcakes
- Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Cupcakes (without frosting) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake, with frosting)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Carbs: 42g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Health Benefits
✅ Mood Booster: Vanilla has a calming effect and enhances mood.
✅ Good Energy Source: Provides quick energy with balanced carbs and fats.
✅ Customizable: Can be made healthier with whole wheat flour or less sugar.
✅ No Preservatives: Unlike store-bought cupcakes, these have no additives!
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them a day in advance and store them covered. Frost just before serving.
2. Why are my cupcakes dry?
Overbaking or using too much flour can dry them out. Always measure correctly and bake until just done.
3. Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! Try cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream.
4. Can I make these cupcakes eggless?
Yes! Replace each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tbsp vinegar + 1 tsp baking soda.
5. How do I make them extra fluffy?
Beating the butter and sugar well, using fresh baking powder, and not overmixing will keep them light and airy.
These Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes are a classic treat that never disappoints. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious. Enjoy baking! 🎂💛