Sugar Rush Recipes

Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or any milk you prefer)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Frosting (Optional):

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (or as needed)

How to Make Vanilla Cupcakes:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients (3 additions of dry and 2 of wet). Mix until just combined; don’t overmix.

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional: How to Make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Cream Butter

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth.

Step 2: Add Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Then add the vanilla extract and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a spatula or piping bag to frost them with your buttercream frosting. Decorate as desired!