Skip to content

Vanilla Cupcakes

Classic vanilla cupcakes that are moist and fluffy, topped with a simple buttercream frosting. These delightful treats are always a crowd-pleaser and can be customised with various toppings.

Total
30 min
Serves
4
Level
Everyday
Vanilla Cupcakes

Created with Pantry Bliss

Ingredients

4 servings

For the cupcakes

  • 250 grams all-purpose flour
  • 150 grams granulated sugar
  • 10 grams baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 125 grams unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 120 milliliters milk, at room temperature

For the buttercream frosting

  • 150 grams unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 250 grams icing sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk

For the cupcakes

  • 250 grams all-purpose flour
  • 150 grams granulated sugar
  • 10 grams baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 125 grams unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 120 milliliters milk, at room temperature

For the buttercream frosting

  • 150 grams unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 250 grams icing sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Rest
5 min

About this recipe

The inspiration for these classic vanilla cupcakes comes from traditional baking practices, focusing on simplicity and joy. Recipes from renowned pastry chefs like Magnolia Bakery in New York celebrated the light, fluffy texture that makes cupcakes a favorite at celebrations. These cupcakes not only provide satisfaction with their moist interiors but also serve as a blank canvas for creativity in toppings and decorations, reflecting a home-based warmth and familiarity.

Method

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven

    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a cupcake tray by placing cupcake liners in each cup.

  2. Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  3. Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar

    In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or a whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

  4. Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla

    Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

  5. Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with them, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

  6. Step 6: Fill the cupcake liners

    Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

  7. Step 7: Bake the cupcakes

    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven too early to ensure proper rising.

    Check the internal temperature of the cupcakes to be at least 95°C.
  8. Step 8: Cool the cupcakes

    Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Ensure they are completely cool before frosting.
  9. Step 9: Make the buttercream frosting

    In a bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, beating well between additions. Add vanilla extract and milk, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

  10. Step 10: Frost the cupcakes

    Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a spatula or piping bag to frost each cupcake with the buttercream frosting.

    Ensure the cupcakes are fully cooled to avoid melting the frosting.
  11. Step 11: Serve and enjoy

    Customize your cupcakes with sprinkles, fruit, or chocolate chips if desired. Enjoy your delicious vanilla cupcakes!

Tips

  • Add a pinch of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist.
  • Use different extracts like almond or lemon for unique flavors.
  • Top with fresh fruit or chocolate chips for added texture and decoration.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Cupcake tray (12 cups)
  • Baking paper liners
  • Sift
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Serve it with

Goes well with

  • Chocolate Chip Cookies

    The combination of soft cupcakes and chewy cookies makes for a delightful dessert plate.

  • Fruit Tart

    A fruit tart can provide a nice contrast with the rich buttercream of the cupcakes.

Drinks

  • Earl Grey Tea

    The floral notes of Earl Grey complement the vanilla flavour beautifully.

  • Sparkling Wine

    A glass of sparkling wine pairs well with the lightness of the cupcakes, adding a celebratory feel.

Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.

More baking recipes
Classic Honey Glazed Carrots

25 min

Classic Honey Glazed Carrots

This is a traditional and simple recipe that highlights the sweet flavour of honey paired with tender carrots, perfect as a side dish for any meal.

4 servings Everyday

Ginger-Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme

15 min

Ginger-Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme

This recipe enhances the classic with ginger and fresh thyme, creating a delightful balance between sweetness and herbaceousness, elevating the simple glazed carrots to a new level of complexity.

4 servings Adventurous

Vanilla Cupcakes with Light Buttercream

35 min

Vanilla Cupcakes with Light Buttercream

These vanilla cupcakes are light and perfect for everyone, finished with a fluffy, light buttercream for the ideal sweet treat.

4 servings Everyday

Dinner, sorted. Every night.

Pantry Bliss is coming to iPhone and iPad very soon. Join the waitlist and we’ll email you the day it’s on the App Store. It’s free to start.

We’ll only email you about the iPhone and iPad launch. Privacy Policy

On Android? You’re next.

Leave your email and we’ll let you know the moment Pantry Bliss arrives on Android. No spam, just the one email.

We’ll only email you about the Android launch. Privacy Policy

Pantry Bliss Coming soon to iPhone & iPad Join