Classic Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting are the epitome of simplicity and elegance in baking. Soft, moist, and infused with the sweet aroma of vanilla, these cupcakes are topped with rich, fluffy buttercream frosting — a timeless treat that never goes out of style.

Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe captures the essence of homemade goodness. Each bite delivers a tender crumb balanced by the creamy sweetness of the frosting.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone smile — light, comforting, and nostalgic. The texture of the cupcake is perfectly moist and airy, and when paired with the silky buttercream, it’s pure perfection.

I also love how versatile it is — you can easily decorate these cupcakes for any occasion, from elegant weddings to colorful birthday parties. Plus, the recipe is simple, uses basic pantry ingredients, and always yields professional-looking results!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

A classic recipe every home baker should master.
Foolproof and easy — perfect for beginners or experts.
Moist, fluffy texture with rich vanilla flavor.
Customizable for different occasions and decorations.
Topped with a creamy buttercream frosting that melts in your mouth.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Calories: ~310 kcal per cupcake (with frosting)

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert / Snack / Party Treat

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cupcakes

1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, at room temperature

For the Buttercream Frosting

1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
A pinch of salt

Simple Cooking Directions

Whisk dry ingredients together.
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla.
Mix dry and wet ingredients alternately with milk.
Bake until golden.
Make buttercream by beating butter, sugar, vanilla, and cream.
Frost cooled cupcakes and decorate.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl between additions.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mix gently.
Pour in the milk, then add the remaining dry mixture.
Mix on low speed just until combined — do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly among 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 cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on high speed until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time.
Add vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream or milk.
Beat for 3–5 minutes on high speed until light and fluffy.
If too thick, add a little more cream; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Once cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag with your favorite tip (such as a star tip) to frost the cupcakes.
Decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or fruit if desired.

How to Serve

Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or milk.
Great for parties, baby showers, birthdays, or holidays.

Additional Recipe Tips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter — it can make cupcakes dense.
Use pure vanilla extract (not imitation) for authentic flavor.
Always cool cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent melting.
For extra smooth frosting, beat buttercream for at least 5 minutes.

Variations

Lemon Vanilla Cupcakes: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the batter.
Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate over frosting.
Filled Cupcakes: Core the center and fill with jam, caramel, or Nutella.
Funfetti Cupcakes: Stir 2 tablespoons of colorful sprinkles into the batter.
Flavored Frosting: Replace vanilla with almond, coconut, or coffee extract for variety.

Freezing and Storage

Room Temperature: Store cupcakes (without frosting) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Frosted cupcakes can be stored up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing:
- Unfrosted cupcakes: freeze up to 3 months (wrap tightly).
- Frosted cupcakes: freeze on a tray until firm, then store in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Special Equipment Needed

12-cup muffin or cupcake pan
Paper cupcake liners
Electric hand or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Rubber spatula
Piping bag with decorating tips

FAQ

Q1: Can I use oil instead of butter?
A: You can use half oil and half butter for a moister cupcake, but pure butter gives a richer flavor.

Q2: Why are my cupcakes dense?
A: Overmixing or using cold ingredients can make the batter dense. Mix gently and ensure ingredients are room temperature.

Q3: How can I make the buttercream less sweet?
A: Add a pinch of salt or a tablespoon of cream cheese to balance sweetness.

Q4: Can I color the frosting?
A: Absolutely! Use gel food coloring for vibrant shades without altering texture.

Q5: How long do the cupcakes stay fresh?
A: They stay moist and delicious for about 3–4 days when stored properly.

Conclusion

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting are a timeless dessert that captures everything we love about home baking — simplicity, elegance, and pure joy in every bite. The soft, fluffy crumb and creamy, dreamy frosting make these cupcakes the perfect base for creativity and celebration.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a special gathering, or just a cozy afternoon treat, these cupcakes never fail to impress. Once you master this classic, you’ll find yourself making it again and again — because nothing beats the magic of a perfect vanilla cupcake!