Vanilla Cupcake with Buttercream Frosting

This classic Vanilla Cupcake with Buttercream Frosting is the perfect treat for any occasion! With its moist, fluffy texture and creamy, swirled frosting, it’s a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The colorful rainbow sprinkles add a playful touch, making these cupcakes irresistible for kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp pure alcohol free vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature

For the buttercream frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tbsp (30–45ml) heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the topping:

• Rainbow sprinkles (optional but highly recommended)

Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Piping bag with a star tip

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later.

Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the cupcakes dense.

Step 6: Fill and bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Buttercream Frosting

Step 7: Beat the butter

In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until creamy and smooth.

Step 8: Add powdered sugar and liquids

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Alternate with heavy cream or milk to achieve your desired consistency. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is fluffy and holds stiff peaks, about 3–4 minutes.

Decorating the Cupcakes

Step 9: Frost the cupcakes

Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe a swirl of frosting onto each cooled cupcake, starting from the outer edge and working your way to the center.

Step 10: Add the finishing touch

Top each cupcake with a generous sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles for a festive and colorful finish!

Tips & Tricks

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
• Testing for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
• Adjusting frosting consistency: Add more powdered sugar for a firmer frosting or more cream for a softer texture.

Storage

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Variations

• Add a drop of food coloring to the frosting for themed cupcakes.
• Swap rainbow sprinkles for chocolate chips, edible pearls, or shredded coconut for a different topping.

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Enjoy your Vanilla Cupcakes!

We hope you love these delightful cupcakes as much as we do. Whether you’re making them for a birthday, holiday, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, they’re sure to be a hit.

Tried this recipe? Share your feedback in the comments below.