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Vanilla Cupcakes

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These classic Vanilla Cupcakes are light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, topped with a silky vanilla buttercream. Made with buttermilk and a touch of vanilla extract, they’re a timeless treat ideal for birthdays, parties, or any celebration.


Ingredients

Cupcakes:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/4 tsp baking powder

  • 1/4 tsp baking soda

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice, mixed and rested 5 min)

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

  • 1 1/2 tbsp heavy cream or milk

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt


Instructions

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

  • Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy (1–2 minutes). Add oil and vanilla; mix well.

  • Combine: Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with dry. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

  • Bake: Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 16–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • Cool: Let cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

  • Make frosting (optional): Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, cream/milk, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

  • Frost: Once cupcakes are cool, frost and decorate as desired.


Notes

  • Customize with sprinkles or food coloring in the frosting.

  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.