Save Classic, tender vanilla cupcakes topped with creamy, sweet buttercream frosting—perfect for any celebration or a delightful treat at home.
I first baked these cupcakes for a family birthday, and they were a huge hit with everyone.
Ingredients
- For the Cupcakes: 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
- For the Cupcakes: 1 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Cupcakes: 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- For the Cupcakes: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- For the Cupcakes: 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- For the Cupcakes: 2 large eggs, room temperature
- For the Cupcakes: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- For the Cupcakes: 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, room temperature
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 2 tablespoons whole milk
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- For the Buttercream Frosting: Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 3 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour in the milk, then add the remaining flour mixture. Mix until just combined do not overmix.
- Step 6:
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2 thirds full.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 16 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 8:
- For the buttercream, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add the milk, vanilla, and salt, and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost generously with buttercream using a spatula or piping bag.
Save Baking these cupcakes together has become a special tradition in our family, creating sweet memories.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, muffin tin, paper liners, wire rack, spatula or piping bag
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (dairy). Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens if uncertain.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 3 g per cupcake
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Enjoy these cupcakes fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to achieve tender cupcakes?
Use room temperature ingredients, mix batter gently without overmixing, and bake at the recommended temperature for a moist, tender crumb.
- → How do I get smooth buttercream frosting?
Beat softened butter until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar and liquids to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- → Can I add flavors or colors to the frosting?
Yes, you can add food coloring or extracts to customize the frosting’s flavor and appearance without altering the texture significantly.
- → How long can the cupcakes be stored?
Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and moisture.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, muffin tin, paper liners, wire rack, and a spatula or piping bag.