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Cupcake: Classic Vanilla Cupcake Recipe





Classic Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

Description

Vanilla cupcake are a beloved treat, perfect for any occasion. Light, fluffy, and topped with a luscious buttercream frosting, these cupcakes are both simple and delightful. Our recipe ensures a moist texture and rich vanilla flavor, making them irresistible to all ages. Whether for a birthday, a party, or just a sweet indulgence, these cupcakes will impress with their classic taste and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cupcake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step-by-Step Cupcake Preparation

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will help the cupcake rise and become light.
  4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. The batter may look slightly curdled at this point, but it will come together once the dry ingredients are added.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cupcake dense.
  6. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This ensures that the cupcake have enough room to rise without overflowing.
  7. Bake the Cupcake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step-by-Step Frosting Preparation

  1. Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy and pale, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the Sugar and Cream: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and increase the mixer speed to high. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
  3. Frost the Cupcake: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip, or simply spread the frosting with a knife. Decorate as desired with sprinkles, edible glitter, or other toppings.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Cupcake

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature. This helps the batter come together smoothly and ensures even baking.
  • Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurements, especially for the flour. Too much flour can make the cupcakes dense.
  • Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so check the cupcakes a minute or two before the recommended baking time.

Variations to Try

  • Chocolate Cupcakes: Substitute 1/3 cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
  • Lemon Cupcakes: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the batter for a zesty twist.
  • Filled Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are cool, use a piping bag to fill the centers with jam, lemon curd, or chocolate ganache for an extra surprise.
  • Different Frostings: Try a cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream frosting to vary the flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 32g

Historical Tidbits about Cupcake

The cupcake, originally known as “1-2-3-4 cake” due to its simple recipe (one cup of butter, two cups of sugar, three cups of flour, and four eggs), has a rich history in American baking. The term “cupcake” itself dates back to the late 19th century, and these small cakes were often baked in cups, hence the name.

Cupcakes gained popularity because they were easier and quicker to make than larger cakes, making them a convenient choice for busy households. During the 1950s and 60s, cupcakes became a staple at children’s birthday parties across America.

In recent decades, cupcakes have experienced a resurgence in popularity, driven by gourmet bakeries and television shows focusing on baking. Today, cupcakes are celebrated for their versatility and the endless possibilities they offer for creativity in both flavor and decoration.

Why Our Cupcake Recipe Stands Out

This classic vanilla cupcake recipe is designed to be foolproof and delicious. By focusing on quality ingredients and simple techniques, we’ve created a cupcake that’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly sweet. The light, fluffy texture pairs wonderfully with the rich buttercream frosting, making each bite a delight.

Our detailed instructions and tips ensure that even novice bakers can achieve professional results. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cupcake are sure to impress.

Moreover, the historical insights add a layer of appreciation for the humble cupcake, connecting you to its longstanding tradition in baking. By following this recipe, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious treat but also partake in a piece of culinary history.