Introduction & Inspiration
This Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes recipe is a cornerstone of any baker’s repertoire. It’s a simple, yet incredibly versatile recipe that yields consistently moist, fluffy, and flavorful vanilla cupcakes. I believe that mastering a basic vanilla cupcake is essential – it’s the foundation for countless variations and decorations. It is a must.
The inspiration came from a desire to create a go-to vanilla cupcake recipe that was reliable, easy to follow, and produced perfect results every time. I wanted a cupcake that was delicious on its own, but also served as a blank canvas for different frostings, fillings, and toppings.
The combination of butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and a touch of cornstarch creates a cupcake that’s both tender and flavorful, with a delicate crumb and a beautiful golden top.
I’m excited to share this recipe because it’s a true classic, a recipe that you’ll turn to again and again. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you’re craving a simple, yet satisfying treat.
Nostalgic Appeal
Vanilla cupcakes, with their delicate flavor and fluffy texture, are a timeless treat that often evokes feelings of nostalgia and childhood celebrations. They’re a classic dessert that’s often associated with birthday parties, school events, and happy memories.
These Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes tap into that nostalgia, offering a simple, yet elegant cupcake that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re a reminder that sometimes the most classic recipes are the best, and that baking can be both comforting and rewarding.
The versatility of vanilla cupcakes also adds to their appeal. They can be customized with different frostings, fillings, and toppings, making them a perfect blank canvas for creativity and personalization.
And that’s the beauty of these cupcakes – they’re a classic, comforting treat that can be enjoyed in countless ways, creating a sense of nostalgia and delight with every bite.
Homemade Focus
Homemade and from scratch. A classic must have recipe.
Flavor Goal
Pure vanilla flavor, moist and fluffy texture.
Ingredient Insights
Butter, granulated sugar, large eggs, pure vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, milk.
Essential Equipment
Two muffin tins, liners, large bowl, hand mixer (or stand mixer), whisk.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 Tbsp. pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 3/4 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350° and line two muffin tins with liners.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl using hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla and mix until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another large bowl whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry.
- Bake
- Cool
Troubleshooting
*Cupcakes sinking *Cupcakes too dry: *Cupcakes overflowing:
Tips and Variations
- Different Extracts:
- Add Citrus Zest:
- Fill the Cupcakes:
- Make Mini Cupcakes:
Customize them!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Perfect with any frosting.
Nutritional Information
Cupcakes!
Print
Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes
Description
This Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes recipe is a cornerstone of any baker’s repertoire. It’s a simple, yet incredibly versatile recipe that yields consistently moist, fluffy, and flavorful vanilla cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 Tbsp. pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 3/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350° and line two muffin tins with liners.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl using hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla and mix until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another large bowl whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry.
- Bake
- Cool
Recipe Summary and Q&A
Classic, delicious, and versatile vanilla cupcakes.
Q: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? A: Yes!
Q: Can I freeze the unfrosted cupcakes? A: yes
Q: What’s the purpose of the cornstarch? A: The cornstarch helps to create a more tender crumb.