Craving a classic treat that never goes out of style? I’ve got the perfect recipe for you – Classic Vanilla Cupcakes. These timeless delights are a staple in every baker’s repertoire, ideal for birthday celebrations or charity bake sales. With a light, fluffy texture and a hint of vanilla sweetness, these cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Pair these versatile vanilla cupcakes with a variety of frostings like Dark Chocolate, Oreo, Salted Caramel Buttercream, or Strawberry Buttercream for a personalized touch. The options are as endless as your imagination. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these cupcakes are a simple yet impressive treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to whip up a batch of Classic Vanilla Cupcakes that will surely be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Let’s gather the essential ingredients for making classic vanilla cupcakes and a luscious vanilla buttercream frosting.
Cupcake Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- 12 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Water or milk
Equipment Needed
To make these classic vanilla cupcakes, you will need a few essential items that are commonly found in most kitchens. Here’s a list of the equipment you will need:
- Muffin Tin: Used to bake the cupcakes perfectly and uniformly.
- Cupcake Liners: To prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the tin and for easy removal.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining and mixing the cupcake batter.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To ensure a smooth and well-mixed cupcake batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Cooling Rack: For cooling the cupcakes after they come out of the oven.
- Piping Bag and Tips (optional): If you prefer to pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes for a decorative touch.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Cupcake Batter
To begin, preheat the oven to 350F (176C) and ready a cupcake pan with liners. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, add in milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, eggs, and water. Mix until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. Use a cookie scoop to fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full, allowing for even baking. Bake for 18-24 minutes until a toothpick comes out almost clean.
Preparing the Frosting
While the cupcakes bake and cool, prepare the vanilla frosting. In a separate bowl, cream softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and water or milk gradually until reaching your desired consistency. Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, generously frost them with the prepared vanilla buttercream using a piping bag or a spatula for a decorative finish.
Baking Instructions
Filling the Cupcake Liners
Fill the cupcake liners 3/4 full with the prepared cupcake batter. This amount allows the cupcakes to rise evenly without overflowing during baking.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) before baking the cupcakes. Bake them in the preheated oven for 18-24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool before frosting for the best results.
Assembling and Decorating
After baking the delicious vanilla cupcakes, the next step is to add the finishing touches with frosting and decorations. Here’s how to apply the frosting and some tips for beautiful cupcake decorations:
Applying the Frosting
To frost the vanilla cupcakes, prepare a batch of your favorite frosting, such as my go-to vanilla buttercream recipe. Using a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 1M open star tip, swirl the frosting generously on top of the cooled cupcakes. If the frosting has been refrigerated, remember to stir it well to remove any air bubbles. The classic swirl is achieved by starting in the center and piping in a circular motion towards the edge.
Storing and Serving
How to Store Vanilla Cupcakes
After baking a batch of delicious classic vanilla cupcakes, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Ensure the cupcakes are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. When unfrosted, place the cupcakes in a pantry for up to 4 days, but if the weather is hot, refrigeration may be required. Frosted cupcakes should be stored according to the frosting instructions, typically in the refrigerator. To freeze, wrap the cupcakes in parchment paper and cling wrap, then place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen cupcakes overnight in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before serving.
Best Practices for Serving
For optimal enjoyment, make sure to bring the stored cupcakes to room temperature before serving them. Refrigerated cupcakes might seem dry initially due to the solidified butter, but they will regain their perfect moisture and texture once at room temperature. When serving frosted cupcakes, follow the specific storage guidelines of the frosting used. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, decorate the cupcakes right before serving for a fresh appearance. Add a swirl of homemade vanilla buttercream frosting using a piping bag or spatula to elevate the visual appeal and taste of these classic treats.
Conclusion
Vanilla cupcakes are a timeless treat that never fails to delight both young and old alike. Their simplicity in preparation and versatility make them a go-to dessert option for any occasion. By following the baking instructions and tips provided, you can easily whip up a batch of these classic vanilla cupcakes with vanilla buttercream frosting. Remember, proper storage is key to keeping your cupcakes fresh and delicious, whether you choose to refrigerate them or freeze for later enjoyment. Serving these cupcakes at room temperature enhances their texture and flavor, especially when paired with a luscious homemade vanilla buttercream. So go ahead, indulge in these delightful vanilla cupcakes and treat yourself to a taste of nostalgia.