Moist and Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

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  • Moist and Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vanilla cupcakes are light, airy, and full of sweet vanilla flavor. With their moist crumb and tender texture, they’re perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you crave a homemade treat. Paired with a smooth vanilla buttercream, these cupcakes are a bakery-worthy delight that you can make at home with ease.

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

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together:
    • Flour
    • Baking powder
    • Salt
  • Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • 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.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

  • Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

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

Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Step 7: Beat the Butter

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).

Step 8: Add Sugar and Vanilla

  • 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.
  • Add the vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk.

Step 9: Adjust the Consistency

  • If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, one teaspoon at a time.
  • If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Step 10: Add Color (Optional)

  • Mix in gel food coloring for a custom shade.

Assemble and Decorate

Step 11: Frost the Cupcakes

  • Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or a knife.
  • Add sprinkles, edible pearls, or decorations if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth batter and even texture.
  • Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
  • Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
  • Storage – Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing – Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

Why These Cupcakes Are Perfect

These vanilla cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and bursting with vanilla flavor. They pair beautifully with any frosting and can be customized for any occasion. Whether for a party, holiday, or casual treat, this recipe guarantees moist, bakery-quality cupcakes every time.

Try them today and enjoy the magic of homemade baking.

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