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Perfect Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

Perfect Vanilla Cupcake Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 35-38 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet vanilla cupcakes dance with delicate crumb and rich buttercream, promising pure dessert bliss. Bakers seeking classic comfort will adore these heavenly single-serving treats that deliver pure deliciousness in every delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base:

  • 1 1/4 cups (156 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Fat and Sweeteners:

  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) sugar

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) buttermilk (or plain kefir, room temperature)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
  2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to eliminate any lumps.
  3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar at medium-high speed for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes pale, voluminous, and smooth.
  4. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, ensuring complete integration after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
  5. Gradually introduce dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three portions, alternating with buttermilk. Mix gently until ingredients are just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain cupcake tenderness.
  6. Portion batter into cupcake liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full for consistent rising.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-23 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean and dry.
  8. Allow cupcakes to rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack to reach room temperature before applying frosting.

Notes

  • Room temperature ingredients help create a smoother, more evenly mixed batter with better rise and texture.
  • Sifting dry ingredients prevents lumps and ensures a lighter, more delicate cupcake crumb.
  • Use fresh, high-quality vanilla extract for the most robust and authentic flavor profile.
  • For gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain similar texture and structure.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-23 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg