Classic Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

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This recipe yields light and fluffy vanilla cupcakes with a delicate sweetness. They’re perfect for any occasion and easy to customize with your favorite frosting and toppings.

Ingredients:

  • For the Cupcakes:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder  
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar  
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup milk
  • For the Vanilla Frosting (Optional):
    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 3 cups powdered sugar
    • 1/4 cup milk
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Make the Cupcakes:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.  
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.  
    • In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.  
    • Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.  
    • In a separate bowl, combine milk and dry ingredients alternately, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.  
    • Divide batter evenly among the muffin liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
    • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  
    • Let cupcakes cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Make the Vanilla Frosting (Optional):
    • In a large bowl, cream together butter until smooth.
    • Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.
    • Increase speed to medium and beat until light and fluffy.
    • Beat in milk and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
    • If frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
  3. Frost and Decorate:
    • Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost with vanilla buttercream frosting using a piping bag or knife.
    • Decorate with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other desired toppings.

Tips & Variations:

  • For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the batter.
  • To make chocolate cupcakes, substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
  • Get creative with your frosting! Try adding a few drops of food coloring for colorful cupcakes, or fold in some chopped chocolate for chocolate buttercream.

Enjoy your delicious homemade vanilla cupcakes!

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