Delightful Vanilla Cupcakes With Buttercream Recipe

Sweet memories of childhood birthdays dance through my mind when I think about classic vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting.

Nostalgic flavors blend perfectly in this simple yet delightful treat that captures pure happiness.

Soft, tender crumbs promise a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels like a warm hug.

Whipping up these cupcakes takes minimal effort but delivers maximum joy for anyone craving a delectable dessert.

Light and fluffy textures create a delicate canvas for the rich, creamy buttercream topping.

Each bite promises a symphony of sweetness that celebrates life’s simple pleasures.

You’ll want to savor every single crumb of these irresistible little cakes that bring smiles with every delicious mouthful.

FAQs

• Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

• How can I prevent my cupcakes from being dry?

Be careful not to overmix the batter and avoid overbaking. Check your cupcakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time and remove them from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean.

• What's the best way to get a smooth buttercream frosting?

Ensure your butter is at room temperature and beat it thoroughly until creamy. Sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps and add milk or cream gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.

Why Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Are Crowd Pleasers

• Bake with Minimal Fuss: Perfect for beginners, these vanilla cupcakes require simple ingredients and basic mixing techniques that anyone can master.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Universally loved vanilla flavor makes these cupcakes a hit at parties, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
• Customize with Ease: Versatile recipe allows for endless decorating options – sprinkle with colorful toppings, add different frosting colors, or experiment with fun piping designs.
• Quick Comfort Treat: Straightforward preparation means you can satisfy sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen, delivering delicious results in under an hour.

Ingredients Needed for Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundational ingredient that provides structure for the cupcakes.
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: A small pinch that enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes.

• Butter: A creamy ingredient that adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a soft texture in the cupcakes.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cupcakes' structure and moisture.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth, tender cake texture.
• Vanilla: Delivers a classic, aromatic flavor that makes these cupcakes delightful.

• Buttercream: A sweet, creamy topping that adds the final touch of indulgence to the cupcakes.

How to Bake Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Set up your workspace with all necessary tools. Place cupcake liners in a muffin tin and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Arrange ingredients within easy reach for smooth baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.

Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients and eliminate any potential lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.

This process incorporates air and creates a smooth base for your cupcakes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition.

Pour in milk and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is well blended and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Use a spatula to mix until ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make cupcakes tough.

Step 6: Fill and Bake Cupcakes

Carefully spoon batter into cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Decorate

Remove cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Once cooled, frost with buttercream frosting and add any additional decorations you desire.

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream

• Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture to maintain a tender, soft cupcake texture without developing tough gluten.
• Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smoother blending and more consistent baking results.
• Use the toothpick test by inserting it into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean with no wet batter, they're perfectly baked.
• Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and achieve a clean, professional-looking decoration.
• Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Flavor Twists for Vanilla Cupcakes

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring a similar texture and taste for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap butter for coconut oil, use plant-based milk, and replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce to create a dairy-free and egg-free cupcake.
• Chocolate Lover's Remix: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and mix in chocolate chips for a rich, decadent chocolate version of the classic vanilla cupcake.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and reduce the amount of sugar to create a lighter, less sweet treat for health-conscious bakers.

Best Pairings for Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream

Crisp, bubbly champagne complements the sweet vanilla cupcakes, cutting through the rich buttercream and creating a luxurious dessert experience.

Serve alongside a small plate of fresh raspberries or strawberries, which add a tart brightness that balances the cupcakes’ sweetness and provides a delightful color contrast.

A smooth cappuccino or latte creates a perfect flavor harmony, with the coffee’s warmth enhancing the vanilla’s delicate notes and providing a sophisticated dessert pairing.

A small shot of vanilla-infused liqueur offers an elegant adult twist, intensifying the cupcake’s vanilla essence and creating a decadent after-dinner treat.

Proper Storage for Vanilla Cupcakes

• Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent buttercream from absorbing other flavors.
• Wrap plain cupcakes individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before frosting.
• Place cupcakes on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm refrigerated cupcakes at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. For frozen cupcakes, let them thaw completely before enjoying at room temperature.

Vanilla Cupcakes With Buttercream Recipe

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream bring classic sweetness to dessert tables with irresistible charm. Homemade comfort combines elegant flavor and delicate texture, inviting you to savor each delectable bite of pure culinary pleasure.

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Ingredients

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Cake Base Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs

Liquid and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Buttercream Frosting Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by setting the temperature to 350F (175C) and arranging cupcake liners in a muffin tin.
2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, whisking to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
3. Use an electric mixer to blend butter and sugar, creating a smooth, airy mixture that appears light and voluminous.
4. Incorporate eggs individually, thoroughly mixing after each addition to create a uniform batter.
5. Pour milk and vanilla into the mixture, gently stirring to integrate all liquid components.
6. Carefully fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stopping as soon as ingredients are just combined to maintain a tender texture.
7. Distribute batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full to allow proper rising.
8. Place muffin tin in preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick that should emerge clean.
9. Remove cupcakes from oven and allow complete cooling on a wire rack before applying buttercream frosting.
10. Decorate cooled cupcakes with smooth, creamy buttercream using a piping bag or spatula for an elegant finish.

Notes

• Prevent Dry Cupcakes by carefully measuring flour and avoiding overmixing the batter, which can develop tough gluten and lead to dense, dry results.
• Customize Flavor by swapping vanilla extract with almond, lemon, or coconut extract to create unique taste profiles that complement different occasions.
• Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you maintain the same light and tender texture.
• Enhance Moisture by adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter, which helps create a softer, more tender crumb and prevents dryness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 293 kcal
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 91 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 37 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg