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Irresistibly Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes That Wow

Some recipes just never go out of style, and vanilla cupcakes are one of them. But not all vanilla cupcakes are created equal. These Irresistibly Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes are the result of perfectly balanced ingredients and foolproof steps that lead to tall, golden, soft cupcakes that are as light as clouds. They're the ideal base for any occasion — birthday parties, weddings, baby showers, or even a lazy Sunday afternoon tea. With a buttery crumb and rich vanilla flavor, they’re anything but boring. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether topped with a towering swirl of buttercream or simply dusted with powdered sugar, these cupcakes are bound to become your go-to vanilla recipe. Let's bake some memories!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
bake & Cooling Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥚 Produits frais
  • 2 large eggs
🍬 Aides culinaires et épices
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
🧈 Produits laitiers
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup whole milk room temperature

Equipment

  • Before we get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
  • Muffin pan (12-cup standard size)
  • Paper cupcake liners
  • Two mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional, but helpful)
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ice cream scoop or large spoon (for evenly portioning batter)
  • Wire rack (for cooling)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
  3. Set out your butter, milk, and eggs to come to room temperature.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with the sugar until light, fluffy, and pale — about 2–3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer.
  2. This step is essential to build structure and give your cupcakes their fluffy rise.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
  1. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
  2. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. This ensures even distribution of leavening and flavor.
Step 5: Combine Everything
  1. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two parts, alternating with the milk.
  2. Add ½ of the flour mixture, mix gently.
  3. Pour in the milk, stir just to combine.
  4. Add remaining flour and fold until no streaks remain.
  5. Do not overmix! Overmixing leads to dense, tough cupcakes.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
  1. Use a scoop or spoon to divide the batter evenly among the liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  2. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool
  1. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature:
Store unfrosted or lightly frosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator:
Frosted cupcakes can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer:
Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag or airtight container.
Reheating:
Thaw frozen cupcakes at room temperature. Microwave for 8–10 seconds to revive freshness if needed.
🥄 Variations
Funfetti: Add ½ cup rainbow sprinkles to the batter.
Lemon Zest: Mix in 1 tsp fresh lemon zest for a citrusy version.
Almond Twist: Swap ½ tsp of vanilla for almond extract.
Berry-Filled: Scoop out a bit from the center and fill with raspberry jam or lemon curd.
Chocolate Chip: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a crowd-pleaser.
❓ 10 FAQs
Why are my cupcakes dry?
Likely overbaking or using too much flour. Always measure carefully and remove cupcakes as soon as they’re done.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture. Margarine will work but won’t be as rich.
Do I have to use whole milk?
Whole milk gives the richest flavor and best texture, but 2% or plant-based milk can be used with slightly different results.
Can I make mini cupcakes?
Yes! Reduce bake time to 10–12 minutes and check for doneness.
What frosting works best?
Classic vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even whipped ganache pair beautifully with this base.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure not to overcrowd the oven and bake in batches.
Can I pipe tall swirls of frosting on these?
Yes! These cupcakes are sturdy enough to hold generous piping without collapsing.
Do these cupcakes dome nicely?
Yes! They bake with a soft, rounded top — perfect for decorating.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce by up to ¼ cup without dramatically affecting texture, but sweetness and softness will be slightly altered.
How long should I cool before frosting?
At least 30 minutes. The cupcakes must be completely cool to avoid melting the frosting.
🏁 Conclusion
These Irresistibly Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes are the ultimate classic. Soft, golden, buttery, and filled with pure vanilla flavor, they’re simple enough for everyday baking but delicious enough to impress at any event. No tricks, no special ingredients — just a solid, tested recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Whether you're a first-time cupcake baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises consistent, fluffy results every time. Top with your favorite frosting, sprinkles, fruit, or serve plain — the possibilities are endless!