Vanilla Cupcakes are a timeless dessert loved by everyone – kids and adults alike! Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a festive celebration, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these soft and fluffy cupcakes never fail to impress.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake the perfect batch of moist and airy vanilla cupcakes at home. Plus, we’ll share secret tips for bakery-style results every time!
Let’s jump right into the best homemade vanilla cupcakes recipe.
Ingredients
For Cupcakes:
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For Vanilla Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Soft and Moist Vanilla Cupcakes at Home

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternating with milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
- Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
- Beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time.
- Add vanilla extract and milk and beat until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or a knife.
- Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
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Serving Suggestions
- Serve cupcakes at birthday parties, weddings, baby showers, or simply enjoy with your evening tea.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it can make cupcakes dense.
- Measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling to avoid dry cupcakes.
- Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Cupcake Variations
- Chocolate Chip Vanilla Cupcakes: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter.
- Lemon Vanilla Cupcakes: Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice.
- Strawberry Frosting: Replace vanilla frosting with fresh strawberry buttercream.
Related Recipes
Making Vanilla Cupcakes at home is easier than you think! With the right technique and ingredients, you can bake fluffy, moist, and flavorful cupcakes that everyone will love.
Perfect for any celebration or simple indulgence, these homemade cupcakes are bound to become your go-to treat. So why wait? Bake a batch today and enjoy every sweet bite!
FAQs
Yes! You can easily mix the batter by hand using a whisk.
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Yes, unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving