Vanilla Cupcake
Introduction
Classic vanilla cupcakes offer a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat, combining light, fluffy texture with timeless vanilla flavor. Their simplicity makes them a go-to dessert for birthdays, baby showers, lunchboxes, or any celebration where something sweet is in order. With this recipe, expect moist, tender cupcakes crowned with a swirl of creamy vanilla frosting—irresistible for kids and adults alike.
Why These Vanilla Cupcakes Are a Must-Bake
These cupcakes shine thanks to their rich vanilla aroma, delicate crumb, and stress-free preparation. The batter comes together easily and bakes up beautifully golden. Pair with a silky buttercream or your favorite frosting. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a weeknight treat, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Essential Tips for Perfect Cupcake Batter
Whipping up the batter is a breeze, but a few tricks ensure unbeatable results. Use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest incorporation. If you want consistency in cupcake size, weigh the batter using a reliable Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display, Black and Stainless Steel. This guarantees each cupcake rises evenly and looks bakery-perfect in the liner.
For mixing, a sturdy hand mixer or stand mixer is ideal, but a whisk and a little elbow grease do the trick for small batches!
How to Bake and Check for Doneness
Preheat your oven and line a muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal and cleanup. For even baking and lift, line each cavity with a square of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll if you run out of cupcake liners—this prevents any sticking and adds a stylish, rustic touch.
To test if cupcakes are done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Alternatively, test the internal temperature accurately with an Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital, Instant Read—you’re aiming for ~200°F for a moist crumb without over-baking.
Frosting and Finishing Touches
Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, pipe on your favorite frosting or simply spread it on with a knife. Ensure organized and mess-free prep by arranging frosting bags or spatulas within reach using the Lifewit Silverware Drawer Organizer, Expandable, Large, Black.
Get creative—try sprinkles, fresh berries, or edible flowers to dress them up for any occasion. Cupcakes are best enjoyed the same day but will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to three days.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe yields 12 delicious vanilla cupcakes. Each cupcake (unfrosted) contains approximately 180 calories, with frosting adding about 70-100 extra calories depending on your recipe. These sweet treats are best savored in moderation for a satisfying finish to any meal.
The Classic Vanilla Cupcake, Reinvented
Whether for a birthday or just because, these cupcakes deliver on flavor and texture. The vanilla essence, tender crumb, and endless topping possibilities make them a modern baking essential everyone can master.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or use pieces of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for a nonstick base.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with a mixer or by hand.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, incorporating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- With the mixer on low (or by hand), add half the flour mixture, then all the milk, then the remaining flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, using a scoop or weighing portions with an Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display, Black and Stainless Steel for accuracy.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. For precision, check doneness with an Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital, Instant Read; cupcakes are perfect at about 200°F inside.
- Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Frost cooled cupcakes with your choice of frosting. Keep utensils and sprinkles organized in the Lifewit Silverware Drawer Organizer, Expandable, Large, Black for easy decorating.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Enjoy baking and sharing these classic vanilla cupcakes—they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser, with a flavor everyone loves!
