Vanilla Cupcakes

I’ve always had a sweet spot for Vanilla Cupcakes. Growing up, they were the focal point of family celebrations and gatherings. The aroma of freshly baked cupcakes wafting through my kitchen brings back memories of laughter, joy, and the simple pleasure of indulging in a soft, fluffy treat. I can still remember standing on my tiptoes, peering into the oven, waiting with bated breath for them to rise perfectly. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, evolving with each family member adding their own twist, yet the core remains the same. It’s hard to resist the allure of these little cakes topped with silky-smooth frosting, beckoning to be devoured. Making Vanilla Cupcakes not only fills my home with delightful scents but also serves as a reminder of the warmth of family and the importance of coming together over good food.

Ingredient List for Vanilla Cupcakes

The beauty of Vanilla Cupcakes lies in their simplicity, relying on just a handful of quality ingredients to create a delightful treat. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The combination of all-purpose flour, sugar, and butter creates a tender crumb, while eggs add richness and moisture. Milk brings a lovely lightness, and a pinch of baking powder helps them rise beautifully. Let’s explore the key players:

• All Purpose Flour – 3 cups
  This is the foundation of your cupcakes, providing structure and stability. It helps create that fluffy texture we all crave.
• Baking Powder – 1 ½ teaspoons
  This leavening agent ensures your cupcakes rise perfectly, giving them that delightful lightness.
• Baking Soda – ½ teaspoon
  This works in tandem with baking powder for a fluffy texture, reacting with acidic ingredients for the perfect rise.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon
  A pinch of salt enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cupcakes.
• Milk – 1 ⅓ cups
  This keeps the batter moist, contributing to a tender crumb and rich flavor.
• Butter – ½ cup (softened)
  Butter adds richness and a beautiful flavor, making every bite a luxurious treat.
• Vegetable Oil – ½ cup
  This helps keep the cupcakes moist and gives them a tender texture.
• Sugar – 2 cups
  Sugar is essential for sweetness, but it also contributes to the structure of the cupcakes.
• Eggs – 2 whole large eggs
  Eggs provide moisture and richness, acting as a binder for the ingredients.
• Egg Whites – 2 whole
  Adding extra egg whites lends a light texture and helps achieve that perfect rise.

Step by Step Instructions for Vanilla Cupcakes

Making Vanilla Cupcakes is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll be amazed at how straightforward it is to bring these delightful treats to life. Let’s dive into the steps and allow your kitchen to fill with the sweet aroma of baking cupcakes.

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your muffin tins by lining them with paper liners, making it easier to remove the cupcakes once baked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined. This step ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the flour.
3. In a liquid measuring cup, combine the milk and a touch of vanilla. Stir this mixture together and set it aside. This helps the flavors meld together nicely.
4. In another large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar. Beat them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process typically takes about three to four minutes.
5. Now, add in the eggs and egg whites one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. This step is key to achieving a smooth batter.
6. Once the mixture is fluffy and well combined, alternate adding in the dry flour mixture with the milk mixture. Start and end with the flour, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.
7. Using a scoop, fill each cupcake liner about three-quarters full with batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without spilling over.
8. Place the muffin tin in the lower two-thirds of the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The cupcakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or has a few moist crumbs.
9. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the muffin tins for 15 to 20 minutes. Afterward, carefully invert them onto cooling racks to cool completely before frosting and decorating.

Recipe Variations about Vanilla Cupcakes

There are so many ways to get creative with Vanilla Cupcakes. Whether you want to add unique flavors or themes, you can easily switch things up. Here are some fun tips to try out:

• Storage: Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have frosted them, store them in the fridge to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze un-frosted cupcakes for up to three months. Just make sure they are fully cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavor by adding different extracts like almond or lemon. You can also incorporate zest from citrus fruits for a refreshing twist.
• Frosting Ideas: Try different types of frosting, such as cream cheese or chocolate buttercream, to vary the flavor profile.
• Mix-Ins: Add chocolate chips or sprinkles directly to the batter for a fun surprise within your cupcakes.
• Occasions: Make themed cupcakes for holidays or events by adding food coloring to your batter or frosting.

Serving This Vanilla Cupcakes

Serving Vanilla Cupcakes is a delightful experience that can turn any occasion into a celebration. Here are some fantastic ideas for serving:

• Family Gatherings: These cupcakes are perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or casual get-togethers. Their simple elegance fits any table setting.
• Decorative Displays: Arrange your cupcakes on a beautiful cake stand for an eye-catching dessert display that invites guests to indulge.
• Pairing Options: They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a delightful treat.
• Seasonal Events: For holiday celebrations, consider decorating the cupcakes with festive themes to match the occasion. Think red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter.
• Take-along Treats: These cupcakes make excellent gifts or treats for potlucks. Just box them up neatly, and you’ve got a portable dessert!
• Sweet Surprises: Surprise guests with surprise fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate ganache hidden inside the cupcakes for an unexpected delight.

FAQ

Conclusion

The charm of Vanilla Cupcakes lies in their simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that appeals to everyone. I encourage you to try making these cupcakes for your next gathering or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself. They are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your table as they have done in mine for years. Happy baking!

Vanilla Cupcakes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort of Vanilla Cupcakes. Soft, moist, and bursting with flavor, these treats are perfect for any occasion. Make them today and bring smiles to your table!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cupcakes

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups All Purpose Flour
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 0.5 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1.33 cups Milk
• 0.5 cups Salted Butter softened
• 0.5 cups Vegetable Oil
• 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 2 whole Whole Large Eggs
• 2 whole Whole Egg Whites

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your muffin tins by lining them with paper liners, making it easier to remove the cupcakes once baked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined. This step ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the flour.
3. In a liquid measuring cup, combine the milk and a touch of vanilla. Stir this mixture together and set it aside. This helps the flavors meld together nicely.
4. In another large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar. Beat them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process typically takes about three to four minutes.
5. Now, add in the eggs and egg whites one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. This step is key to achieving a smooth batter.
6. Once the mixture is fluffy and well combined, alternate adding in the dry flour mixture with the milk mixture. Start and end with the flour, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.
7. Using a scoop, fill each cupcake liner about three-quarters full with batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without spilling over.
8. Place the muffin tin in the lower two-thirds of the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The cupcakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or has a few moist crumbs.
9. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the muffin tins for 15 to 20 minutes. Afterward, carefully invert them onto cooling racks to cool completely before frosting and decorating.

Notes

• Storage: Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have frosted them, store them in the fridge to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze un-frosted cupcakes for up to three months. Just make sure they are fully cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavor by adding different extracts like almond or lemon. You can also incorporate zest from citrus fruits for a refreshing twist.
• Frosting Ideas: Try different types of frosting, such as cream cheese or chocolate buttercream, to vary the flavor profile.
• Mix-Ins: Add chocolate chips or sprinkles directly to the batter for a fun surprise within your cupcakes.
• Occasions: Make themed cupcakes for holidays or events by adding food coloring to your batter or frosting.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.