Vanilla Cupcakes
These classic vanilla cupcakes bake up perfectly soft, fluffy, and buttery. With a moist, tender crumb and a reliable 12-cupcake yield, this recipe is a foolproof go-to for any occasion.
Equipment
- 12-cup muffin or cupcake pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Electric Mixer
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or plain kefir, room temperature
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin or cupcake pan with liners.
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl.
- Beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed for 5 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Lower the mixer to medium and add the dry mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk until everything is incorporated.
- Portion the batter into the lined pan, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 20 to 23 minutes, then let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Mixing Tip: For the fluffiest texture, beat the butter and sugar for the full 5 minutes until it’s pale and airy. Once the flour is added, mix only until it disappears to avoid tough cupcakes.
Ingredient Tip: Using room temperature butter, eggs, and buttermilk is key. This helps the batter mix smoothly and prevents it from becoming lumpy.
Doneness: To avoid dry cupcakes, check for doneness on the early side. They are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, and the tops spring back lightly when touched.
Storage: Store cooled, unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. If the cupcakes are frosted with a dairy-based topping, store them covered in the refrigerator.
Nutrition information is an estimate based on common ingredients and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on brands, portions, and substitutions.