When you crave something sweet, fluffy, and delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this 5-minute cupcake recipe is your perfect solution. These cupcakes are incredibly soft, airy, and rich in flavor.
The texture is so light that they literally melt in your mouth from the very first bite. Perfect for sudden guests, kids’ lunchboxes, or midnight dessert cravings, this quick cupcake recipe will become your go-to favorite. With simple ingredients and no fancy equipment, you’ll enjoy bakery-style results at home in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla essence
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
If using an oven, preheat it to 180°C (350°F). If using a microwave, ensure it has a convection mode. Line your cupcake tray or silicone molds with cupcake liners or lightly grease them with oil or butter.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and helps create a fluffy texture.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine milk, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla essence. Stir well until completely mixed.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently using a spatula or whisk. Be careful not to overmix as it may make the cupcakes dense. Stir just until everything is combined smoothly.
5. Add Vinegar:
Add the vinegar or lemon juice to the batter and mix quickly. This will activate the baking soda and help the cupcakes rise beautifully.
6. Fill the Molds:
Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake molds, filling each mold about 3/4 full. This allows space for the cupcakes to rise.
7. Add Toppings (Optional):
Sprinkle chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, or chopped nuts on top of each cupcake if you desire an extra layer of flavor and texture.
8. Bake or Microwave:
If using an oven, bake for 12–15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If using a microwave (convection mode), it usually takes 4–5 minutes. Watch closely as microwave times may vary slightly.
9. Cool Before Serving:
Let the cupcakes cool in the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps set their shape and texture.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled slightly, serve these soft, pillowy cupcakes. You’ll be amazed at how they melt effortlessly in your mouth with the very first bite. They pair perfectly with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.