Classic Vanilla Cupcakes: A Sweet Delight

Extra Information

Nutritional Facts (per cupcake):

• Calories: ~250 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g

Ingredients

For 12 cupcakes:

For the Cupcake Batter:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ⅔ cup (160ml) whole milk, at room temperature

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• Pinch of salt

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners. This ensures even baking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, giving your cupcakes their signature softness.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to prevent overmixing. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.

Step 6: Portion the Batter

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and enough cream to reach your desired consistency. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 9: Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes cool, frost them with a piping bag or a knife for a rustic look.

Useful Tips:

• Always use room-temperature ingredients for better emulsification.
• Don’t overfill the cupcake liners; they should only be filled two-thirds full.
• Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Additional Information

• Level of Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
• Portion: Makes 12 cupcakes

Equipment Needed

Here’s what I used when making these cupcakes:

• A stand mixer or hand mixer (I prefer the stand mixer because it saves my arms!).
• Measuring cups and spoons—I always measure precisely to ensure consistent results.
• A whisk for mixing dry ingredients.
• A muffin tin with paper liners (the liners make cleanup so much easier).
• A piping bag (optional but fun!) or a simple knife if you want to spread the frosting.

Recipe Variations

Classic vanilla cupcakes are versatile. Once you master the base recipe, you can try endless variations. Here are a few ideas I love:

• Chocolate Swirl : Mix some cocoa powder into the batter to create a chocolate version. Swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect. It looks stunning and tastes delicious!
• Lemon Zest Twist : Add lemon zest and extra lemon juice to the batter for a bright flavor. It pairs well with creamy buttercream.
• Nutty Delight : Add chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the batter. Sprinkle some on top of the frosting for extra texture.
• Fruit-Filled Fun : Spoon a small dollop of jam into the center of each cupcake before baking. The jam melts slightly, creating a gooey surprise inside.

Side Dishes

When serving these cupcakes, think about what complements their sweet flavor. Here are some side dishes and accompaniments I enjoy:

• Fresh Berries : A bowl of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries makes a perfect pairing. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the berries balance out the richness of the cupcakes beautifully.
• Whipped Cream : Sometimes, I’ll serve a small dish of lightly sweetened whipped cream alongside the cupcakes. Guests can choose to add a dollop on top of their frosting for an extra indulgent treat.
• Coffee or Tea : There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm cup of coffee or tea with a freshly baked cupcake. I find that black coffee or a strong espresso enhances the flavors of the vanilla, while herbal teas provide a soothing contrast.
• Milkshake Bar : If I’m hosting a party, I’ll set up a DIY milkshake bar where guests can blend their favorite flavors with vanilla ice cream and crushed cookies. It’s a fun way to extend the dessert experience!

Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to making any dessert stand out, and cupcakes are no exception. Over time, I’ve developed a few tricks to make my cupcakes look as beautiful as they taste:

• Colorful Liners : Use colorful or patterned cupcake liners to add visual interest. Whether it’s pastel hues for a baby shower or bold prints for a birthday party, the right liner can elevate the overall aesthetic.
• Piping Techniques : When it comes to frosting, practice makes perfect! I’ve experimented with different piping tips to create various designs, from simple swirls to intricat rosettes. Even if you’re not confident with piping, a basic star tip can produce professional-looking results with a little practice.
• Edible Decorations : Sprinkle toppings like sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or coconut flakes over the frosting for added flair. You could also use edible glitter or gold dust for a touch of luxury.
• Themed Displays : Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand or cake pedestal to create a visually appealing display. Add decorative elements like flowers, ribbons, or themed props to tie everything together.
• Personalized Touches : If I’m baking for someone special, I like to personalize the cupcakes by writing names or messages on them using food-safe markers or fondant cutouts. It’s a thoughtful gesture that people always appreciate.