Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter , softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs , room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness), room temperature

For the Frosting (Optional):

• Your favorite frosting (vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream)
• Sprinkles, fresh fruit, or other toppings for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease the cups lightly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour , baking powder , and salt . Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes , until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs , one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk (begin and end with the dry ingredients). Mix on low speed until just combined—do not overmix. The batter should be smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full . Use an ice cream scoop for even distribution.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Bake for 18–20 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
2. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes , then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with your favorite frosting using a piping bag or spread it on with a knife.
2. Add sprinkles, fresh fruit, or other decorations as desired.

Tips and Variations

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even rise.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup of whole milk with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of almond extract along with the vanilla for a subtle nutty undertone.
• Mini Cupcakes: Reduce baking time to 10–12 minutes if making mini cupcakes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Storage: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days . Frosted cupcakes should be refrigerated.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

• Perfectly Fluffy Texture: The combination of creaming butter and sugar with the right amount of leavening creates a light and airy crumb.
• Classic Vanilla Flavor: A timeless taste that pairs beautifully with any frosting or toppings.
• Versatile Base: Customize with different frostings, fillings, or decorations for endless creativity.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe foolproof for bakers of all levels.

These Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes are a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion—or no occasion at all! Whip up a batch and enjoy the sweet, comforting flavors of homemade goodness. 🧁