Vanilla Cupcakes Clara quick dinners

Vanilla cupcakes are a classic dessert favorite, known for their soft, fluffy texture and light, sweet flavor. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or everyday treats, these cupcakes are versatile and pair beautifully with any frosting or topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vanilla cupcake recipe is simple, reliable, and delivers bakery-style results every time. The cupcakes are moist and tender with a delicate crumb and just the right amount of vanilla flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a sweet craving, these cupcakes are easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Whole milk (or buttermilk)
• Vanilla extract

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
7. Bake for 1822 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 standard cupcakes
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 1822 minutes
Total time: About 3540 minutes

Variations

• Funfetti: Fold in ½ cup of rainbow sprinkles for colorful birthday cupcakes.
• Filled Cupcakes: Add a spoonful of jam, lemon curd, or chocolate ganache in the center before baking.
• Almond or Lemon: Replace half the vanilla with almond or lemon extract for a flavor twist.
• Vegan: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg, and substitute butter with vegan margarine.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

storage/reheating

Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Frosted cupcakes should be refrigerated if not consumed within 24 hours, especially if using cream cheese or whipped toppings.
To freeze, wrap each unfrosted cupcake individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How do I make my vanilla cupcakes more moist?

Use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter, which can make cupcakes dense.

Can I use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract?

Yes, vanilla bean paste adds an extra depth of flavor and beautiful specks of vanilla throughout.

Why did my cupcakes sink in the middle?

This could be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter, which affects the structure.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and divide the batter evenly between cupcake tins.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.

Can I use this recipe for a cake instead of cupcakes?

Yes, it works well as a single 8 or 9-inch cake—adjust the baking time accordingly.

What frosting goes best with vanilla cupcakes?

Vanilla buttercream, chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or fruit-based frostings all pair wonderfully.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, bake them a day in advance and store in an airtight container. Frost just before serving.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, oil will create a moister cupcake, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Do I need to refrigerate cupcakes?

Unfrosted cupcakes don’t need refrigeration, but frosted ones should be stored in the fridge if they contain perishable ingredients.

Conclusion

Vanilla cupcakes are the ultimate go-to treat: simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re frosting them with buttercream or serving them plain, this recipe offers the perfect base for all your sweet creations. Make a batch today and enjoy a classic dessert that never goes out of style.

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