Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Make the Cupcakes:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Beat until just combined.
- Bake: Fill the muffin liners about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 6. Cool: Let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- Cream butter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter until smooth.
- Add sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add liquid: Beat in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the vanilla buttercream frosting.
Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Cupcake:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes. Mix just until combined.
- Proper baking time: Don’t overbake. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Let them cool completely: Frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt.
- Store: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Enjoy these delicious and fluffy vanilla cupcakes!