Super Easy Vanilla Cupcakes
These vanilla cupcakes are fluffy, moist, and incredibly easy to make. They’re perfect for birthdays, parties, or anytime you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Make the Cupcake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Bake the Cupcakes:
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Buttercream Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes, until the frosting is fluffy. If desired, add food coloring.
5. Decorate the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the frosting on top.
- Add sprinkles, fruits, or other decorations if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cupcakes soft and fluffy.
- Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
These super easy vanilla cupcakes are classic, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit! 🧁✨