Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes

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Introduction

Fluffy vanilla cupcakes are a timeless classic loved by all ages. Light, tender, and delicately sweet, these cupcakes are the perfect base for any frosting or decoration. Their soft crumb and rich vanilla aroma make them ideal for birthdays, celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply as a comforting homemade treat. This detailed recipe gives you bakery-style cupcakes with a perfectly moist and airy texture.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

  • 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) milk, room temperature

Optional Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp milk or cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Muffin pan
  • Paper cupcake liners
  • Cooling rack

Preparation Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
  2. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until pale, light, and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  6. Add the dry ingredients in two parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
  8. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting Method (Optional)

  1. Beat the butter until creamy and smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
  3. Add milk and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
  4. Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cupcakes.

Baking Science (Why They’re Fluffy)

  • Creaming butter and sugar traps air, creating a soft structure.
  • Baking powder and baking soda help the cupcakes rise evenly.
  • Alternating dry ingredients with milk keeps the batter smooth and prevents toughness.

History

Vanilla cupcakes originated as a convenient, portion-controlled version of classic vanilla cakes. Their popularity grew in the 20th century as ovens and standardized baking tools became common in home kitchens, making cupcakes a go-to dessert for families and celebrations.

Nutritional Value (Approx. per cupcake, without frosting)

  • Calories: 180
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Protein: 3 g

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

  • Always use room-temperature ingredients for best texture.
  • Do not overfill liners to avoid flat tops.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep cupcakes moist and tender.

Conclusion

Fluffy vanilla cupcakes are simple yet elegant, delivering soft texture and classic flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed plain, frosted, or decorated, they remain a universally loved dessert that never goes out of style.

Loved By

Children, home bakers, pastry chefs, party hosts, and anyone who appreciates a light, comforting dessert with endless decorating possibilities.

If you want, I can also share chocolate, lemon, or eggless versions.

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