Moist and Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

These vanilla cupcakes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—light, airy, and bursting with sweet vanilla flavor. Perfectly moist and topped with your favorite frosting, they’re ideal for birthdays, parties, or just because you deserve a treat. With this foolproof recipe, you’ll achieve bakery-quality cupcakes right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk (or buttermilk for extra moisture), at room temperature

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (Optional):

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3–4 cups (360–480g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1–2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: Gel food coloring for decorating

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

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 softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts (start and end with the dry ingredients). Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be smooth and silky.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full (use a cookie scoop or spoon 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.

Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase the speed to medium-high and beat until fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat until smooth and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, one teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
4. Optional: Add gel food coloring to tint the frosting as desired.

Assemble and Decorate

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip or spread the frosting with a knife.
2. Add sprinkles, edible pearls, or other decorations if desired.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Storage: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frosted cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before frosting.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

These Moist and Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes strike the perfect balance between tender crumb and rich vanilla flavor. They’re versatile enough to pair with any frosting or toppings, making them a blank canvas for creativity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy to everyone who tries them. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the magic of homemade treats!