Introduction
This vanilla cupcake recipe is perfect for any occasion. Vanilla cupcakes are a timeless treat, cherished for their fluffy texture and sweet vanilla flavor. Additionally, they are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for various occasions. Whether you’re preparing them for a special event, a birthday party, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe works perfectly. It creates cupcakes that are not only light and flavorful but also easy to make.
To get started, you will need the following ingredients to make this delicious vanilla cupcake recipe.
Ingredients | Amount |
All-purpose flour | 1 1/4 cups |
Baking powder | 1 1/4 tsp |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
Sugar | 3/4 cup |
Eggs (room temperature) | 2 large |
Pure vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
Buttermilk or plain kefir (room temperature) | 1/2 cup |
Key Ingredients for Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes:
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious vanilla cupcakes:
Vanilla cupcake recipe @kitchennest
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): This provides the structure for the cupcakes, ensuring they have a soft, tender crumb.
- Baking powder (1 1/4 tsp): A key leavening agent, it helps the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): This enhances the overall flavors and also balances out the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): It adds richness and moisture, creating a soft and tender texture in each bite.
- Sugar (3/4 cup): Not only does it sweeten the cupcakes, but it also helps create a light, airy texture when creamed with butter.
- Large eggs (2, room temperature): These eggs bind the ingredients together, providing structure and adding essential moisture.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): It infuses the cupcakes with a rich, warm vanilla flavor that elevates the taste.
- Buttermilk or plain kefir (1/2 cup, room temperature): This ingredient keeps the cupcakes moist and tender. Additionally, its slight tang enhances the overall flavor and texture.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating cupcakes that are not only light and fluffy but also packed with flavor.
How to Make Vanilla Cupcakes:
These cupcakes are easy to make and deliver bakery-quality results. Follow these steps for light and delicious cupcakes every time.
Follow this step-by-step vanilla cupcake recipe to create moist cupcakes with a sweet vanilla flavor.
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt by whisking them together. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for perfect rising and flavor balance.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together for about 5 minutes until it’s thick and fluffy. This step helps create the light, airy texture that makes these cupcakes so irresistible.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated before proceeding. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its warm, sweet flavor.
Step 4: Alternate Adding Flour and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, while mixing on medium speed. This method ensures the batter stays smooth and well-mixed without becoming too dense.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Divide the batter evenly into 12 lined muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake at 350°F for 20-23 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Frosting Suggestions:
Once the cupcakes have cooled, you can top them with a delicious frosting. Try this easy and creamy frosting recipe for a rich, smooth finish that pairs perfectly with vanilla cupcakes.
Vanilla Cupcakes @kitchennest
Pro Tips for Baking Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes
Achieving the perfect vanilla cupcake requires a few simple tricks:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps ensure smooth mixing and even baking throughout.
- Measure Carefully: Too much flour or sugar can drastically alter the texture, making the cupcakes too dense or too dry.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter may lead to dense cupcakes, which you definitely want to avoid.
For more ideas on fun treats, don’t forget to explore our Stuffed French Toast Recipe, which is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is it possible to substitute regular milk for buttermilk
A: Yes, regular milk can be used, but buttermilk or kefir will provide more moisture and a tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Q2: How do I store leftover cupcakes?
A: Leftover cupcakes should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if you want to keep them for longer, refrigeration is an option, though they taste best when eaten fresh.
Q3: Can I freeze these vanilla cupcakes?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature, and frost them once fully defrosted.
Vanilla Cupcake Recipe: A Classic Delight
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These vanilla cupcakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with vanilla flavor. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a party, special event, or just to satisfy your sweet craving. Pair these cupcakes with your favorite frosting, or try them with our suggested creamy frosting for the best results.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir until just combined.
- Fill the cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 20-23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a tangy twist, you can use kefir instead of buttermilk.
- These cupcakes are great with a simple buttercream frosting or chocolate ganache.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 150mg
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
Keywords: Vanilla Cupcake Recipe, Fluffy Cupcakes, Easy Vanilla Cupcakes