Best Vanilla Cupcakes ever

Vanilla Cupcakes that are moist and fluffy! Discover easy recipes to bake the perfect vanilla cupcakes for any occasion or celebration.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American, French

Servings 12 Servings

Calories 320 kcal

All-Purpose Flour 1 ¾ cups – Provides structure while keeping the cupcakes tender.
Baking Powder 1 ½ teaspoons – Ensures a perfect rise for a soft, airy texture.
Unsalted Butter ½ cup, softened – Adds richness and creates a smooth, velvety crumb.
Granulated Sugar ¾ cup – Sweetens and locks in moisture.
Large Eggs 2, room temperature – Helps with structure and fluffiness.
Pure Vanilla Extract 2 teaspoons – The star ingredient—choose a high-quality one for deep, aromatic flavor.
Whole Milk ½ cup, room temperature – Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
Salt ¼ teaspoon – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Pro Tip: Always use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and even baking. Cold ingredients can lead to dense cupcakes.

Unsalted Butter 1 cup, softened – Creates a rich, creamy texture.
Powdered Sugar 3–4 cups, sifted – Sweetens and gives structure to the frosting.
Pure Vanilla Extract 2 teaspoons – For a deep, fragrant vanilla flavor.
Heavy Cream or Whole Milk 2–4 tablespoons – Adjusts consistency for spreading or piping.
Salt ¼ teaspoon – Balances sweetness and enhances vanilla notes.
Pro Tip: For an extra smooth and fluffy buttercream whip it for a few extra minutes—it makes a world of difference!

Vanilla Bean Paste – Swap for extract for an intense vanilla taste with specks of real vanilla.
Almond Extract ¼ teaspoon – A subtle, nutty depth pairs beautifully with vanilla.
Citrus Zest ½ teaspoon – A hint of lemon or orange zest adds brightness to the flavor.

Line a 12-cup muffin tray with cupcake liners and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring all ingredients to room temperature—this ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
Pro Tip: Weigh your flour for accuracy or spoon and level it into the measuring cup to avoid dense cupcakes.

Cream the Butter & Sugar – In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until pale and fluffy. This step creates air pockets, ensuring a light texture.
Add the Eggs & Vanilla – Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. For a deep, fragrant taste, stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
Alternate Wet & Dry – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined.
Avoid Overmixing! Overworking the batter can lead to dense, chewy cupcakes instead of light, airy ones.

Fill each cupcake liner about ⅔ filled with batter, dividing it evenly.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
After five minutes of cooling in the pan, move the cupcakes to a wire rack to finish cooling before icing.
Pro Tip: Don’t open the oven door too soon—sudden temperature changes can cause the cupcakes to sink.

While the cupcakes cool, whip up the dreamiest vanilla buttercream!
Beat the Butter – Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the butter on high speed for 3-4 minutes until ultra-creamy.
Add the Sugar & Vanilla – Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low to avoid a sugar cloud. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Adjust the Consistency – Add heavy cream (or milk), one tablespoon at a time, beating until light and fluffy.

Best Vanilla Cupcakes Ever – Recipe Recap

Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, French-inspired
Diet: Vegetarian
Method: Baking
Keyword: Vanilla cupcakes, bakery-style cupcakes, easy homemade cupcakes, fluffy cupcakes, buttercream frosting
Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

💡 Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, afternoon tea, or a simple treat anytime! 🍰✨

Keyword bakery-style cupcakes, buttercream frosting, easy homemade cupcakes, fluffy cupcakes, Vanilla cupcakes