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A trio of frosted vanilla cupcakes arranged elegantly on a white platter.

Vanilla Cupcakes

These classic vanilla cupcakes are fluffy, moist, and topped with a delightful swirl of vanilla buttercream. Perfect for any occasion, they are simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 5 cupcakes
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cupcakes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cup milk
Vanilla Buttercream
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tbsp milk or cream

Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Paper liners
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Cupcakes
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  6. Divide batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Vanilla Buttercream
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth.
  3. Beat in the vanilla extract.
  4. Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the vanilla buttercream.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of almond extract to the buttercream. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.