🧁 Easy Vanilla Cupcakes for Beginners – Soft, Fluffy & Delicious.
Vanilla cupcakes are classic sweet treats that are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweet – perfect for any occasion! Whether you're a beginner baker or just craving something homemade, this recipe is simple to follow and gives amazing results.
📋 Ingredients (for 12 cupcakes)
Dry ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (120g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Wet ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 7 tbsp (100g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional for extra flavor:
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon or lemon zest
Optional frosting:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter (soft)
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to adjust texture)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease the cups.
Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- (And cinnamon or lemon zest, if using)
Make sure all dry ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Mix wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix until just combined.
✅ Don’t overmix – it's okay if the batter looks slightly lumpy.
Step 5: Fill the muffin cups
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin liners – fill each about 2/3 full.
💡 Optional: Add chocolate chips, fruit, or jam in the center for a twist!
Step 6: Bake
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of a cupcake – it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Step 7: Cool the cupcakes
Let the cupcakes cool in the tray for 5 minutes.
Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
🧁 Optional Buttercream Frosting
Step 1: Beat the butter
In a bowl, beat the soft butter with a mixer for 2-3 minutes until creamy.
Step 2: Add sugar & vanilla
Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and 1–2 tbsp milk until smooth.
Step 3: Decorate
Use a piping bag or spoon to add frosting on the cooled cupcakes. Decorate with sprinkles or fruit!
🔍 Tips for Perfect Cupcakes
- Don’t overmix – It makes cupcakes dense, not fluffy.
- Customize – Add chocolate chips, berries, or lemon zest for different flavors.
- Store – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze (without frosting) for up to 2 months.
❓ FAQ
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, use 90ml (6 tbsp) vegetable oil instead of butter for extra moist cupcakes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil.
How do I make chocolate cupcakes?
Replace 2 tbsp of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
These vanilla cupcakes are simple, soft, and so tasty. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you want something sweet! 🍰🧁