Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

These Easy Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream are fluffy, delicious, and topped with a creamy buttercream frosting. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavor. You’ll find that each bite of these vanilla cupcakes brings joy and sweetness, making them suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Instructions – The easy-to-follow steps make baking a breeze for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Delicious Flavor – With pure vanilla extract in both the cupcakes and frosting, you get a rich vanilla taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat – These cupcakes are perfect for any celebration, from birthdays to holidays, or just a cozy family dessert night.
• Customizable – Feel free to add sprinkles or fruit toppings to personalize your cupcakes for any event.
• Perfectly Fluffy Texture – The combination of sour cream and milk ensures perfectly moist and fluffy cupcakes every time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make the process easier. Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or handheld mixer)
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Cupcake pan
• Cupcake liners
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spreader or piping bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – Provides consistent mixing speed for even batter texture and frosting consistency.
• Cupcake pan – Ensures uniform cupcake sizes for even baking.
• Measuring cups – Accurate measurements lead to better results in your baking.

Ingredients

These Easy Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream are fluffy delicious with a creamy buttercream frosting. This is seriously the best vanilla cupcake I’ve ever tasted!

Ingredients:
– 1 ⅔ cup All-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoon Baking powder
– ½ teaspoon Salt
– 1 cup Granulated sugar
– ½ cup Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
– 1 Large egg
– ¼ cup Sour cream
– ¾ cup Milk
– 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
– ¾ cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
– 3-4 cups Confectioners sugar (powdered sugar)
– 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons Milk
– Pinch Kosher salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Line a cupcake pan with 12 liners to prepare for the batter.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:
* All-purpose flour
* Baking powder
* Salt

This mixture will be added to the wet ingredients later.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Granulated sugar and melted butter until smooth (the mixture will be gritty).
2. Add in the egg, followed by sour cream, milk, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is completely incorporated. Note that the batter will be thick.

Step 5: Fill Cupcake Liners

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full (approximately ¼ cup of batter). Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting

Let the cupcakes cool completely before you frost them with your prepared vanilla buttercream.

Step 7: Make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Using a stand mixer with the whisk attachment (or a large mixing bowl with a handheld mixer), beat room temperature butter at medium speed until smooth and creamy; this should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 8: Add Sugar and Flavorings

Add confectioners sugar, pure vanilla extract, and milk to the bowl. Increase mixer speed to high and beat for an additional three minutes. If your frosting is too thick, add more milk one teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, incorporate more confectioners sugar gradually.

Step 9: Frost Your Cupcakes

Frost cooled cupcakes using either a spreader or piping bag. Depending on how much frosting you prefer on each cupcake, there may be some extra frosting leftover.

Now you have delightful Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

Serving Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream can turn any occasion into a delightful celebration. Whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, these cupcakes are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.

For Birthdays

• Festive Decorations: Add colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to enhance the visual appeal of your cupcakes.
• Themed Toppers: Use themed cupcake toppers that match the party’s theme for an extra special touch.

With Coffee or Tea

• Afternoon Delight: Pair your cupcakes with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a relaxing afternoon snack.
• Flavor Pairing: Choose vanilla-flavored drinks to complement the vanilla taste of your cupcakes.

As Part of a Dessert Table

• Mix and Match: Include these cupcakes alongside other desserts like brownies or fruit tarts for variety.
• Showcase Presentation: Arrange them on a tiered stand for an eye-catching display that draws guests’ attention.

For Picnics

• Easy Transport: Pack them in a sturdy container to enjoy during outdoor gatherings.
• Individual Servings: Use cupcake liners to make serving easy and mess-free.

How to Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

To achieve the ultimate vanilla cupcake experience, consider these essential tips. They will help ensure your treats are perfectly fluffy and delicious every time.

• Bold Flour Choice: Use high-quality all-purpose flour for the best texture and flavor.
• Bold Temperature Control: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smooth batter.
• Bold Incorporation Technique: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients to avoid over-mixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Bold Cooling Method: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
• Bold Flavor Enhancement: For an extra vanilla kick, use real vanilla extract instead of imitation vanilla.

Best Side Dishes for Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

Pairing side dishes with your Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these sweet treats beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides balance and brightness alongside the rich cupcakes.
2. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cupcakes, creating a unique flavor combination.
3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These elegant bites add indulgence while maintaining a fruity freshness that pairs well with vanilla.
4. Mini Cookies: Serve an assortment of mini cookies for guests who enjoy variety in their dessert choices.
5. Coffee Cake Slices: The moist texture and subtle spices of coffee cake can enhance the cupcake flavor without overpowering it.
6. Ice Cream Cups: Offer small cups of vanilla ice cream or flavored options that guests can mix and match with their cupcakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream can be simple, but there are common mistakes that may affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements. Baking is a science, and inaccuracies can lead to dense or flat cupcakes.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in tough cupcakes.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven properly to ensure even baking. An incorrect temperature can cause your cupcakes to bake unevenly or collapse.
• Frosting too soon: Wait until the cupcakes are completely cool before frosting them. Frosting warm cupcakes can lead to melted frosting and a messy presentation.
• Using old ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking powder and vanilla extract. Expired ingredients can negatively impact flavor and rise.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cupcakes in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the frosting separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

• Place cooled cupcakes in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Reheating Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and place the cupcakes on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry them out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes. This method helps retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream from scratch?

Making these cupcakes from scratch involves mixing your dry ingredients first, then combining them with wet ingredients like butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Follow the instructions carefully for best results!

Can I customize my Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, fruits, or different extracts. Just remember that any additions may alter baking times slightly.

How do I store leftover Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water, use dairy-free butter, and switch regular milk for plant-based milk alternatives.

What is the best way to frost Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream?

Using a piping bag gives you more control and creates beautiful designs. If you prefer a simpler look, spreading it on with a spatula works just as well!

Final Thoughts

These Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream are not only fluffy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent treat for any occasion! Feel free to customize flavors or toppings according to your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy every delightful bite!