Vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting are like little clouds of happiness, fluffy and sweet with just the right amount of creaminess to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine biting into one of these heavenly delights, where moist vanilla cake meets a rich, buttery topping that melts in your mouth. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste before they even cool.
These cupcakes aren’t just for birthdays or special occasions; they’re perfect for any day that needs a sprinkle of joy. Whether you’re having a bad hair day or just want to celebrate surviving another Monday, these vanilla cupcakes can brighten up your mood faster than you can say “frosting.” So grab your apron and let’s dive into this sweet adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delightful vanilla cupcakes are incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers
- Their flavor is pure bliss, balancing sweetness with a hint of vanilla
- Topped with light and fluffy buttercream frosting, they look as good as they taste
- Perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy movie nights at home
Ingredients for Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cupcakes; ensure it’s fresh for the best texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that beloved cupcake crumb.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent gives the cupcakes their delightful rise.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor—don’t skip it!
Unsalted Butter: Brings richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add structure.
Vanilla Extract: The star flavor that sets these cupcakes apart—go for pure if you can!
Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the batter; whole milk works best.
For the Buttercream Frosting:
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is essential for achieving that creamy texture in your frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while providing that smooth consistency we all love.
Heavy Cream: A splash will help whip your frosting into a fluffy masterpiece.
Vanilla Extract: Yes, more vanilla! It enhances the flavors in the frosting beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to a cozy temperature of 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a cupcake tin with paper liners because nobody likes scrubbing burnt-on cake batter from metal pans.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting adds air so your cupcakes will be light and airy—like little bites of happiness!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), beat together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about five minutes. If it looks like clouds have taken residence in your bowl, you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Drizzle in that glorious vanilla extract too! Your kitchen should start smelling like a bakery right about now.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture while alternating with milk. Start and end with flour; mix until just combined—overmixing is like telling your cupcakes they’re not good enough.
Step 6: Bake!
Spoon the batter into prepared cupcake liners about two-thirds full. Bake for about twenty minutes or until golden brown or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting—if you can resist!
For an extra touch of joy, transfer cooled cupcakes onto plates and generously slather them with buttercream frosting! Your friends (and maybe even strangers) will thank you for it.
Now that you know how to whip up these delightful vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting, get ready for some serious compliments at your next gathering! Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting are a classic treat that effortlessly brings joy to any gathering
- Their fluffy texture and sweet flavor make them a crowd-pleaser
- Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because — every bite is a little slice of happiness!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the dry ingredients first, then cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fill cupcake liners. Bake to perfection!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for an exciting twist. Add sprinkles or chocolate chips for an extra kick of fun! You can even top these cupcakes with flavored frostings like lemon or raspberry for unique variations.
Storing & Reheating
Store your vanilla cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, just pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and fluffiness
- Avoid overmixing the batter; it leads to dense cupcakes
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting into a puddle
Sometimes, I remember the first batch I ever made—my little cousin declared them “the best thing ever” while wearing frosting on his face like a trophy. Those moments stick with you!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting?
To make delicious vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting, you’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. For the buttercream frosting, gather unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. These ingredients combine to create a light and fluffy cupcake topped with a rich and creamy frosting that everyone will love.
How long should I bake Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting?
Bake your vanilla cupcakes at 350°F (175°C) for about 18 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Ensure you don’t overbake them to keep your cupcakes moist and tender. After baking, allow them to cool completely before adding the buttercream frosting.
Can I use different flavors in my Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting?
Absolutely! While the classic version uses vanilla flavoring, you can experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist. You might also add cocoa powder for chocolate cupcakes or incorporate fruit purees for added flavor. Just remember that any changes to the base recipe may require adjustments in baking time or ingredient ratios.
How do I store leftover Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting?
Store leftover vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting at room temperature if you plan to eat them within two days. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To keep the frosting fresh and avoid drying out, double-wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Conclusion for Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting :
In summary, these vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting are easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this delightful treat. Remember to allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them for the best results. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet snack, these cupcakes will surely impress your family and friends!
Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Light and fluffy, each bite offers an indulgent vanilla flavor topped with creamy buttercream. Perfect for birthdays or cozy evenings at home, these cupcakes are sure to brighten your day. Follow this simple recipe to create a batch of these heavenly delights that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (pure if possible)
- ½ cup whole milk
- For the Buttercream Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with milk, starting and ending with flour—mix until just combined.
- Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (60g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
