The Best Vanilla Cupcakes: A Classic Recipe for Perfectly Fluffy Cupcakes

Vanilla cupcakes are a timeless classic—light, fluffy, and packed with sweet vanilla flavor. Whether you're baking for a birthday, a party, or just a sweet craving, this easy vanilla cupcake recipe is sure to impress.

Made with simple ingredients and a few baking tricks, these cupcakes come out moist, fluffy, and delicious every time. Plus, they pair perfectly with a variety of frostings, from classic buttercream to rich chocolate ganache.

Why This is the Best Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

• Light and Fluffy Texture – Thanks to the right balance of flour, eggs, and leavening agents.

• Moist and Tender Crumb – Buttermilk or milk keeps them soft and delicious.

• Rich Vanilla Flavor – Using real vanilla extract makes a difference.

• Easy to Make – Simple steps and beginner-friendly instructions.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or whole milk)

• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

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

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract.

4. Add Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing just until combined. Stir in vegetable oil for extra moisture.

5. Fill and Bake

Fill each cupcake liner two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Cool Completely

Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

7. Make the Buttercream Frosting

Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.

8. Frost and Enjoy

Pipe or spread the frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Decorate with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of chocolate if desired.

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps with even mixing and a lighter texture.

• Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.

• Use High-Quality Vanilla – Pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste enhances the flavor.

• Test for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Variations

• Lemon Vanilla Cupcakes – Add 1 tsp lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

• Strawberry Vanilla Cupcakes – Fold in 1/2 cup chopped strawberries into the batter.

• Chocolate Swirl Cupcakes – Add a swirl of melted chocolate to the batter before baking.

Conclusion

These vanilla cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and full of rich vanilla flavor, making them a must-try for any home baker. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this foolproof recipe will become your go-to!

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