Moist Vanilla Cupcakes
Moist Vanilla Cupcakes are tender, fluffy treats with a rich vanilla aroma and a delightfully soft crumb. This easy-to-follow recipe uses simple ingredients to deliver consistently moist cupcakes, perfect for celebrations or cozy moments. Enjoy the classic vanilla flavor that appeals to all ages and the versatility to customize with various frostings and toppings.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 35-37 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour blend)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners or lightly grease the cups to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—this step is crucial for a tender crumb.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition, then stir in the pure vanilla extract.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the flour mixture and milk alternately to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fill and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to help everything combine smoothly and promote even baking.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir just until ingredients blend to keep the cupcakes tender.
- Measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Bake at a consistent 350°F oven temperature for proper rise and moist texture.
- Test for doneness a few minutes before the timer ends to prevent overbaking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: vanilla cupcakes, moist cupcakes, easy cupcake recipe, homemade cupcakes, vanilla dessert