Delight your taste buds with classic vanilla cupcakes. These cupcakes are light, fluffy, and packed with vanilla flavor. The delicious taste of these cupcakes is amplified by the creamy texture of the vanilla buttercream frosting.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in your pantry. However, the use of vanilla beans in both the cupcakes and frosting adds a depth of flavor that's more intense than vanilla extract. If you can't find them in your local supermarket, you may need to visit a specialty store or order them online.
Vanilla Cupcakes and Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
granulated sugar: It sweetens the cupcakes and makes them irresistible.
vanilla bean: It adds a rich and deep vanilla flavor.
cake flour: It makes the cupcakes lighter and more tender than all-purpose flour.
baking powder and baking soda: They work together as leavening agents to help the cupcakes rise.
salt: It enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
unsalted butter: It adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
eggs: They add structure and help with leavening.
greek yogurt: It adds moisture and helps create a tender texture.
vanilla extract: It adds more vanilla flavor to the mix.
whole milk: It adds moisture and helps with the consistency of the batter.
powdered sugar: It sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
One reader, Arleta Cline says:
I recently tried out this vanilla cupcake recipe, and it was a hit! The cupcakes turned out moist and fluffy, and the vanilla buttercream frosting was the perfect finishing touch. The recipe was easy to follow, and the result was absolutely delicious. I'll definitely be making these again!
Essential Techniques for Making Vanilla Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them ensures a smooth and well-mixed batter, resulting in light and fluffy cupcakes.
How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cupcakes are done. If there's wet batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes before testing again.
How to make the vanilla buttercream frosting: Gradually adding the powdered sugar to the butter and beating until smooth helps to create a creamy and luscious frosting. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve the desired consistency.
How To Make Vanilla Cupcakes
In this recipe, light and moist vanilla cupcakes are topped with a smooth and aromatic vanilla buttercream frosting for a simple and elegant dessert.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Vanilla Cupcakes:
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- 1vanilla bean,seeds scraped
- 1¾cupscake flour
- 1½tspbaking powder
- ½tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- ½cupunsalted butter,room temperature
- 2largeeggs,room temperature
- ⅓cupGreek yogurt,or sour cream, avoid non-fat versions of either
- 1tbspvanilla extract,store-bought or homemade
- ⅔cupwhole milk
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1cupunsalted butter,2 sticks, softened
- 4cupspowdered sugar
- ¼tspsalt
- 1tbspvanilla extract,store-bought or homemade
- 1vanilla bean,optional
- 4tbspmilk,or heavy cream
Instructions
Cupcakes:
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Add granulated sugar and vanilla bean to the bowl of a stand mixer, and beat on medium speed for about 30 seconds until blended. Add in the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt, and beat for an additional 1 minute until well-mixed.
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Add butter and mix on medium-low speed for about 2 minutes until well combined and a little crumbly.
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In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and beat on medium speed until just combined.
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Slowly add milk and mix on low speed until just combined. The batter will be very thin and liquid.
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Fill cupcake liners just over ½ full. Bake for 14 minutes and then test to see if they are done. They are done when a toothpick comes out without wet batter stuck to it.
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Remove and let cool on a cooling rack. Once the cupcakes have reached room temperature, frost with the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (recipe below).
Buttercream Frosting:
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Add the butter to the bowl of a stand mixer and beat for 1 minute on medium speed until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, the seeds of a vanilla bean and about 2 tablespoons milk and reduce speed to low. Beat for 1 minute or so until the sugar no longer sprays.
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Then increase speed to medium high and beat for an additional 1 minute until smooth. Add an extra tablespoon or 2 of the milk if making a thinner frosting.
Nutrition
- Calories: 356.67kcal
- Fat: 16.67g
- Saturated Fat: 10.31g
- Trans Fat: 0.62g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.29g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.76g
- Carbohydrates: 49.27g
- Fiber: 0.23g
- Sugar: 38.30g
- Protein: 2.73g
- Cholesterol: 63.28mg
- Sodium: 180.98mg
- Calcium: 55.94mg
- Potassium: 46.28mg
- Iron: 1.15mg
- Vitamin A: 143.97µg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes Every Time
When preparing your vanilla cupcakes, ensure your ingredients, particularly the butter and eggs, are at room temperature before you start. This will allow for easier mixing and a smoother batter, resulting in lighter, fluffier cupcakes. Additionally, when adding the milk to the batter, do so slowly and mix on low speed. This will prevent overmixing, which can result in a denser cupcake. Lastly, when testing the cupcakes for doneness, insert the toothpick into the center of the cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cupcakes are done. If there's wet batter on the toothpick, they need more time. This will ensure your cupcakes are perfectly baked every time.
Time-Saving Tips for Baking Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Room temperature: Ensure all refrigerated ingredients, such as eggs and butter, are at room temperature before beginning. This will aid in smoother mixing and better incorporation of ingredients.
Efficient setup: Organize your workspace by setting up all necessary tools and equipment beforehand. This will help you work more efficiently and reduce the risk of overlooking key steps.
One-bowl method: Utilize a one-bowl mixing method whenever possible to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.
Time management: Plan your steps in advance and allocate time for each task to maintain a steady pace and avoid feeling rushed.
Substitute Ingredients For Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative to granulated sugar, and it adds a subtle caramel flavor to the cupcakes.
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cake flour by reducing the amount slightly, as it has a slightly higher protein content.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, and it adds a hint of coconut flavor to the cupcakes.
greek yogurt - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt to add moisture and a tangy flavor to the cupcakes.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to whole milk, and it adds a subtle nutty flavor to the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter, and it provides a similar creamy texture to the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a lower-fat alternative to butter, and it adds moisture and a hint of sweetness to the cupcakes.
whole milk - Substitute with soy milk: Soy milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to whole milk, and it provides a creamy texture to the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter, and it provides a similar texture and flavor to the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter, and it adds a rich coconut flavor to the cupcakes.
How to Beautifully Present Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes
Elevate the cupcake: Place the vanilla cupcake on a pristine white porcelain plate to showcase its simplicity and elegance.
Garnish with vanilla bean: Finely sprinkle the top of the cupcake with freshly scraped vanilla bean to add a touch of sophistication and aroma.
Incorporate edible flowers: Adorn the plate with delicate edible flowers such as pansies or violets to bring a pop of color and a hint of floral fragrance.
Utilize gold leaf accents: Add a touch of luxury by delicately placing a shimmering gold leaf on the plate to create a visually stunning presentation.
Serve with vanilla bean-infused whipped cream: Accompany the cupcake with a quenelle of vanilla bean-infused whipped cream to provide a creamy and luxurious element to the dish.
Present on a mirrored platter: Showcase the vanilla cupcake on a mirrored platter to create a captivating reflection and enhance the overall visual appeal.
Use a minimalist plating style: Embrace simplicity by placing the cupcake on a minimalist plating to allow the natural beauty of the dessert to shine through.
Incorporate a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness and elegance to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Baking Delightful Vanilla Cupcakes
Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a versatile kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It typically comes with various attachments for different tasks and is ideal for making cake batters, frosting, and dough.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, or stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is perfect for preparing cupcake batter and frosting.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into ingredients. It's commonly used to mix wet and dry ingredients together and to create a smooth cupcake batter.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure and portion ingredients such as sugar, flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract for the cupcake batter and frosting.
Cupcake pan: A cupcake pan, also known as a muffin tin, is a specialized baking pan with individual cup-shaped molds. It's used to bake the vanilla cupcakes to perfection.
Cooling rack: A cooling rack is a metal grid used to cool baked goods such as cupcakes. It allows air to circulate around the cupcakes, preventing them from becoming soggy as they cool.
Piping bag and tips: A piping bag and tips are used for decorating cupcakes with frosting. The piping bag is filled with frosting and fitted with various tips to create different designs and decorations on the cupcakes.
Storing and Freezing Vanilla Cupcakes: A Guide
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cupcakes soggy.
To store the cupcakes at room temperature, place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 days.
If you want to store the cupcakes in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 5 days. Allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
To freeze unfrosted cupcakes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes at room temperature for about an hour before frosting.
To freeze frosted cupcakes, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is solid, about 2 hours. Then, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes at room temperature for about 2 hours before serving.
If you have leftover buttercream frosting, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Allow the frosting to come to room temperature and beat it with a mixer until smooth before using.
How To Reheat Leftover Vanilla Cupcakes
The best way to reheat leftover vanilla cupcakes is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the cupcakes. This method helps to restore the texture and flavor of the cupcakes, making them taste almost as fresh as when they were first baked.
Another option is to use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat the cupcakes, as this can cause them to become rubbery or dry. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals, checking after each interval to ensure that it doesn't overheat. A single cupcake should only take about 20-30 seconds to reheat in the microwave.
If your cupcakes have frosting, you may want to remove it before reheating, as the heat can cause the frosting to melt and become messy. You can easily remove the frosting with a knife and set it aside. After reheating the cupcake, you can place the frosting back on top or enjoy the cupcake without it.
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can also reheat the cupcakes in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes inside for about 2-3 minutes. This method is particularly useful if you want to reheat multiple cupcakes at once.
If you have stored your cupcakes in the refrigerator, it's best to let them come to room temperature before reheating. This will help to ensure that they reheat evenly and maintain their texture. If you're short on time, you can still reheat them directly from the refrigerator, but you may need to adjust the reheating time accordingly.
Interesting Trivia About Vanilla Cupcakes
The vanilla bean used in this recipe is actually a fruit of the Vanilla planifolia orchid, which is native to Mexico. The orchid's flowers must be hand-pollinated, and the beans are then cured for several months to develop their distinctive flavor and aroma. Vanilla is the second most expensive spice after saffron due to the labor-intensive process required for its cultivation and production. The vanilla bean's complex and rich flavor adds a unique touch to the cupcakes, making them a delightful treat for vanilla lovers.
Is Making Vanilla Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this vanilla cupcake recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are fairly common and can be found at most grocery stores, making it accessible and affordable for a household. The use of vanilla bean and Greek yogurt may be slightly more expensive, but the overall cost is reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a delightful homemade treat. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Vanilla Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The vanilla cupcake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- High sugar content: The recipe calls for 1 cup of granulated sugar and 4 cups of powdered sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- Refined flour: Cake flour is a refined flour that lacks the nutrients and fiber found in whole grain flours.
- High fat content: The recipe uses a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
- Low in nutrients: The recipe does not include any fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, which are essential for a balanced diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by using a sugar substitute or cutting the sugar by 1/3 to 1/2. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Replace some or all of the cake flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Swap out some of the butter for healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or coconut oil.
- Add in some grated zucchini or carrots to the batter for added moisture and nutrients. You can also top the cupcakes with fresh fruit instead of frosting for a healthier twist.
- Use a smaller amount of frosting or skip it altogether to reduce the overall sugar and fat content.
Editor's Opinion on This Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
The vanilla cupcakes recipe is a classic and delightful treat. The combination of vanilla bean and extract infuses the cupcakes with a rich, aromatic flavor. The addition of Greek yogurt ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the vanilla buttercream frosting adds a luscious sweetness. The use of real vanilla bean elevates the overall taste and aroma of the cupcakes. This recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and elegance, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion.
Enhance Your Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delightful Alternatives to Traditional Vanilla Cupcakes
Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Vanilla Cupcakes
Why trust this Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe:
This recipe uses vanilla bean to infuse the cupcakes with a rich and aromatic flavor. The use of Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and subtle tanginess, enhancing the overall taste. The inclusion of cake flour results in a lighter and more delicate crumb, ensuring a moist and tender cupcake. Additionally, the vanilla buttercream frosting is made with real vanilla bean and unsalted butter, providing a luxurious and indulgent topping. These high-quality ingredients guarantee a delicious and authentic vanilla cupcake experience.
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