A cloud of sweetness wafts through the air as you peek into the oven. Those golden-brown vanilla cupcakes with buttercream are rising like little edible clouds of happiness. Each one is a tiny joy bomb waiting to be devoured. You can almost taste that sweet buttery bliss just by looking at them.

Thinking back to my childhood birthdays, I remember how the aroma of freshly baked cupcakes filled our home like a warm hug. We’d gather around the kitchen table, giggling and sneaking bites of frosting before anyone else could get their hands on it. These delightful vanilla cupcakes are perfect for any celebration or just because you deserve a treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You’ll love these vanilla cupcakes because they’re simple to make and yield perfectly fluffy results every time
- The sweet buttercream adds a rich finish that makes them irresistible
- They look gorgeous on any dessert table, turning heads at parties
- Plus, you can easily customize them for any occasion!
I once brought a batch of these cupcakes to a potluck dinner, and people raved about them for days!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A versatile flour that provides the best texture; don’t swap it for anything fancy.
- Baking Powder: Make sure it’s fresh for those fluffy heights; no one wants flat cupcakes!
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances sweetness; it’s basically magic in baking.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter gives the best creaminess; don’t skip this step!
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is perfect for sweetness and structure; it’s essential.
- Eggs: These help bind everything together; use large eggs for best results.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic touch; imitation just won’t cut it.
- Milk: Whole milk creates moist cupcakes; skim just won’t do justice.
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- Powdered Sugar: This gives your frosting its sweet fluffiness; sift it if lumpy.
- Unsalted Butter: Again, room temperature is key here; trust me on this!
- Heavy Cream or Milk: Adds smoothness and richness; adjust according to consistency preference.
- Vanilla Extract: Yes, more vanilla! It makes everything better.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners—choose colors that scream “fun”!
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution.
Cream Butter and Sugar Together: In another bowl, beat unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes—don’t rush it!
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Mix in eggs one at a time along with your glorious vanilla extract until fully incorporated—this adds magic.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Carefully : Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mix alternately with milk. Fold gently to keep that lovely airy texture intact.
Bake Your Cupcakes : Spoon batter into prepared liners about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Create the Buttercream Frosting : Beat unsalted butter until creamy then gradually add powdered sugar. Pour in heavy cream & vanilla extract until desired consistency is reached.
Frost Your Cupcakes : Once cooled completely, generously frost each cupcake using a piping bag or simply slather it on with a knife—whatever feels right!
Now watch as everyone flocks towards your dessert table like moths to a flame!
Enjoy your delightful creations as you savor each bite of these moist vanilla cupcakes topped with rich buttercream frosting! Perfectly fluffy yet packed with flavor—they’re sure to become your new go-to recipe.
You Must Know
- Mastering vanilla cupcakes with buttercream is easier than you think
- These fluffy delights are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to bake sales
- The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then add wet ones for a smooth batter. This order ensures even baking and a light texture that’ll have everyone swooning.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap vanilla extract for almond or lemon zest for a unique twist. You can add chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles to the batter for extra fun, making each cupcake as special as the occasion.
Storing & Reheating
Store your vanilla cupcakes with buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them but note this may change their texture slightly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
- Don’t overmix; it can make your cupcakes dense
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before adding buttercream for the best results!
Building my cupcake empire began with a birthday party where my vanilla cupcakes stole the show. Everyone couldn’t stop raving about them, and I knew I was onto something delicious!
FAQ
How do I know when my cupcakes are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done.
Can I freeze vanilla cupcakes with buttercream?
Yes, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months without losing flavor.
What can I substitute for butter in the frosting?
Try using cream cheese or margarine as alternatives in your buttercream recipe.

Delightful Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Delight in these soft, fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with rich buttercream frosting—perfect for any celebration or a sweet indulgence anytime!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour
- Baking Powder
- Unsalted Butter
- Granulated Sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla Extract
- Whole Milk
- Powdered Sugar (for frosting)
- Heavy Cream (or Milk for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing in vanilla extract.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients, alternating with milk; fold gently.
- Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the buttercream, beat unsalted butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost generously.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (68g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg