Classic Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Light, fluffy, and topped with silky-smooth buttercream – these cupcakes are a timeless treat!


Introduction

After the rich and indulgent Chocolate Fudgy Cake, I’m bringing you something lighter but equally delightful — Classic Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting! These little gems are perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or just a sweet craving on a cozy day. The best part? They’re beginner-friendly and customizable with colors, sprinkles, or flavor twists.

 

🧁 Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk (room temperature)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3–4 cups (360–480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

 

🍰 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 12-cup muffin tray with cupcake liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
  5. Add the dry ingredients in two parts, alternating with milk. Mix gently until smooth — don’t overmix!
  6. Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners (about 2/3 full).
  7. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Buttercream Frosting

  1. Beat butter until creamy and pale (about 4 minutes).
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time.
  3. Add vanilla, salt, and milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. If you want to add food coloring, divide and tint your frosting now.

 

Step 3: Decorate!

  • Use a piping bag and your favorite nozzle to swirl the frosting on cooled cupcakes.
  • Top with sprinkles, edible glitter, or even fresh berries if desired.

 

💡 Tips & Tricks

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
  • Don’t overbake — check cupcakes at 18 minutes!
  • Buttercream too thick? Add a touch more milk. Too runny? Add more powdered sugar.

 

🧁 Make it Your Own!

  • Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
  • Mix 1 tbsp cocoa powder into half the frosting for a two-tone chocolate-vanilla swirl.
  • Replace vanilla extract with almond or rose essence for a new flavor.


 

📸 Share Your Bake!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on Instagram @flavorstoriesbyareeba or comment below with your results!

  

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