Name: Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe: Fluffy and Sweet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: Cupcakes:; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk; Frosting:; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 –3 tbsp heavy cream; Optional: Sprinkles (extra frosting); Suggested Pairings: Tea (fresh berries)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Vanilla Cupcakes are a fluffy, sweet dessert or treat, perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or afternoon tea. These classic cupcakes, featuring a tender vanilla cake base topped with creamy vanilla buttercream frosting, deliver rich, nostalgic flavors with a light, airy texture. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with extra frosting or colorful sprinkles, this Vanilla Cupcakes recipe offers a vibrant, celebratory aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a simple baking method with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home bakers seeking a crowd-pleasing treat that brings joyful, timeless charm to any setting.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cupcakes:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 tsp vanilla extract
2–3 tbsp heavy cream

Serving:

Optional: Colorful sprinkles, extra frosting
Suggested Accompaniments: Fresh berries, coffee
Suggested Pairings: Tea, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Muffin tin, cupcake liners, mixing bowls, electric mixer, whisk, piping bag, spatula, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Prepare Batter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk in three additions, starting and ending with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Bake Cupcakes: Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Frosting: In a large bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add vanilla extract and 2 tbsp heavy cream; beat until fluffy. Taste a small spoonful and adjust with more cream or sugar for a balanced, sweet flavor. Add more cream if needed for piping consistency.
Decorate: Transfer frosting to a piping bag with a star tip (or spread with a spatula). Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Optionally garnish with sprinkles.
Serve: Arrange cupcakes on a white ceramic platter. Serve with fresh berries or coffee, paired with tea or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Vanilla Cupcakes

Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter and fluffier cupcakes.
Taste and adjust the frosting before decorating to balance sweetness and creaminess.
Measure flour accurately by spooning it into the cup and leveling off to avoid dense cupcakes.
Fill liners 2/3 full to prevent overflow and ensure even rising.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the fluffy frosting and colorful garnishes.
Make ahead: Bake cupcakes 1 day in advance; store unfrosted in an airtight container and frost before serving.
Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Enhance aesthetic: Add sprinkles or a frosting swirl for a vibrant, celebratory pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Vanilla Cupcakes: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend; confirm baking powder is gluten-free.
Low-Sugar Vanilla Cupcakes: Reduce granulated sugar to 1/2 cup and use 2 cups powdered sugar in frosting.
Chocolate Chip Vanilla Cupcakes: Fold 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
Lemon Vanilla Cupcakes: Add 1 tbsp lemon zest and 1 tbsp lemon juice to the batter; use lemon extract in frosting.
Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes: Replace butter with vegan margarine, eggs with 1/2 cup applesauce, almond milk, and use vegan heavy cream in frosting.
Berry Vanilla Cupcakes: Top with 1 tbsp fresh raspberry or blueberry puree swirled into the frosting.
Spiced Vanilla Cupcakes: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp nutmeg to the batter for warmth.
Filled Vanilla Cupcakes: Core cooled cupcakes and fill with 1 tsp jam or custard before frosting.

Storage and Serving Tips

Unfrosted cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for 5 days; frost before serving.
Store frosted cupcakes in the fridge for up to 3 days; let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature and frost as needed.
Serve at room temperature for the best fluffy texture and creamy frosting.
Use as a dessert for parties or a treat for afternoon tea.
Pair with tea or sparkling water to complement the sweet vanilla flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a vibrant, festive charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (1 cupcake each, with frosting):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 3g
Vitamin A: 12% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sugar options reduce carbs). Moderate in calories; indulgent and sweet.

Conclusion

This Vanilla Cupcakes recipe delivers a fluffy, sweet dessert perfect for birthdays or gatherings. It transforms simple ingredients into a timeless favorite. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The tender cake and creamy frosting delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing, celebratory charm.