Are you looking for a foolproof recipe to bake the most delightful, fluffy vanilla cupcakes from scratch? This guide will take you step by step through creating these light, moist, and flavorful treats. Perfect for any occasion, this best fluffy vanilla cupcake recipe from scratch is as simple as it is delicious.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Incredibly Fluffy Texture: Achieved with a perfect balance of wet and dry ingredients.
- From Scratch: No pre-mixes, just wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with any frosting or topping of your choice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup of buttermilk
Instructions for Success
Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.
Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Before Frosting
Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Decoration Ideas
- Classic Buttercream: Add a swirl of vanilla or chocolate buttercream.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Perfect for a tangy twist.
- Sprinkles or Fruits: Decorate with colorful sprinkles or fresh berries for a vibrant touch.
Tips for Perfect Cupcakes
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensures even mixing and a smoother batter.Don’t Overfill Liners: Filling them about ¾ full allows room for rising.
Test for Doneness: Check with a toothpick to avoid underbaking or overbaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for up to three months.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily substitute buttermilk by mixing ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for great results.
Conclusion
This best fluffy vanilla cupcake recipe from scratch delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity. Whether for a birthday, celebration, or just because, these cupcakes are guaranteed to bring joy to any table. Give them a try and experience the magic of baking from scratch!