Classic Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Soft, fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with rich buttercream frosting—perfect for birthdays, parties, or just a sweet treat. Discover this easy-to-make recipe that guarantees bakery-style cupcakes right at home!

For the cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk

For the buttercream frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups (440g) powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
6. Prepare frosting: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and heavy cream until smooth.
7. Decorate: Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Add sprinkles if desired.

Tips:

• For extra fluffy cupcakes, do not overmix the batter.
• To achieve bakery-style frosting swirls, use a piping bag with a star tip.
• Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.

You can visit our Desserts Recipes section for even more delicious recipes.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frost just before serving.

Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: Yes, but reduce the added salt in the batter.

Q: How can I make colorful frosting?
A: Add a few drops of gel food coloring to the frosting.