Description:
These Classic Vanilla Cupcakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with vanilla flavor. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because, these timeless cupcakes pair beautifully with any frosting of your choice.
Origin:
The classic vanilla cupcake is a beloved dessert staple, evolving from traditional sponge cakes to the versatile single-serving treat enjoyed worldwide today.
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- A pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Sprinkles, fruit, or edible glitter for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Fill and Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool:
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of cream or milk. Beat until fluffy, adding more cream if needed. Adjust salt to taste.
9. Frost and Decorate:
- Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or a spatula. Decorate with toppings of your choice.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Do not overfill the cupcake liners to prevent overflow.
- Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Recommendations:
- Pair with chocolate frosting for a flavor twist.
- Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition (per cupcake, including frosting):
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 26g
Enjoy these Classic Vanilla Cupcakes, a delightful treat for any occasion!
