The sweet aroma of freshly baked vanilla cupcakes wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug. Picture golden tops lightly dusted with powdered sugar and luscious swirls of buttercream beckoning to be devoured – it’s pure bliss! But wait! There’s more. These delightful treats aren’t just about looks; they bring back memories of childhood birthdays and family gatherings filled with laughter, sprinkles, and icing fights.
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a homemade batch of these vanilla cupcakes with buttercream. They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser – ideal for birthday parties, bridal showers, or even just because it’s Tuesday! So grab your apron and let’s dive into this cupcake adventure together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These vanilla cupcakes are ridiculously easy to make and taste heavenly
- The buttery frosting is a dream come true for any sweet tooth
- Their charming appearance complements any festive occasion beautifully
- Plus, you can easily customize them to suit any flavor cravings or dietary needs!
I remember making these vanilla cupcakes with my niece one rainy afternoon; we ended up covered in flour but laughed until our bellies hurt!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use good quality flour for the best texture; sift it if you want ultra-fluffy cupcakes.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweet ingredient adds sweetness and moisture; don’t skimp on it!
- Baking Powder: The secret weapon for those light and airy cupcakes; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness of the cake; believe me, you won’t want to skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing; oh-so-creamy goodness awaits!
- Eggs: Use large eggs for consistency in size; they help bind everything together perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract: High-quality extract elevates the flavor profile significantly; pure is always better than imitation.
- Milk: Whole milk works wonders here; it keeps the batter moist and adds richness.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for that dreamy buttercream frosting; sift it to avoid lumps in your icing.
- Heavy Cream: A splash gives your frosting a silky texture that will make your taste buds dance!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners. The anticipation builds as you prepare for that delightful aroma.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures an even rise when baking!
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes should do it! You’ll see it turn pale yellow as air incorporates.
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Mix in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything’s blended well—no egg bits allowed!
Add Dry Ingredients Gradually: Alternate adding dry ingredients with milk into your creamy mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix or risk dense cupcakes – we want them soft!
Bake Your Cupcakes!: Spoon batter into prepared liners filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean—your kitchen will smell divine!
Create Your Buttercream Frosting!: While the cupcakes cool, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy then gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fluffy. Add a splash of heavy cream to achieve that perfect spreadable consistency.
Now you have all that deliciousness ready to devour!
These vanilla cupcakes with buttercream are not only delectable but also incredibly versatile – feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve made something truly special from scratch.
You Must Know
- Vanilla cupcakes with buttercream are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion
- Their fluffy texture and rich flavor will leave everyone craving more
- Don’t forget to let them cool completely before frosting for the best results and a beautiful finish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix the batter. This ensures even baking and fluffy cupcakes that rise perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap vanilla extract for almond extract or add chocolate chips for a delightful twist on classic vanilla cupcakes.
Storing & Reheating
Store your vanilla cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them without frosting.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and fluffier texture in your cupcakes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; it can lead to dense cupcakes
- Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean
Baking these vanilla cupcakes always takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where my mom and I would whip up batches for birthdays and bake sales. The smell of vanilla filled the air, making our home feel extra special.
FAQ
Can I use different flavors in buttercream?
Yes, you can easily incorporate flavors like chocolate, lemon, or coffee into your buttercream.
How do I prevent my cupcakes from sinking?
Ensure that you don’t overmix the batter and use fresh baking powder to help them rise properly.
What can I do if my buttercream is too runny?
Add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency for frosting.
Irresistible Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream
Indulge in these fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting, perfect for any celebration or sweet craving!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternating with milk until just combined.
- Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting, beat softened butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream until fluffy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
