Classic Cupcakes Recipe

Cupcakes are delightful individual-sized treats that combine soft, fluffy cake with rich flavors and endless customization options. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or a simple sweet indulgence, these classic cupcakes have a moist texture and a light crumb. Whether topped with buttercream frosting, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream, they can be transformed into elegant desserts or fun, colorful creations. This recipe delivers perfectly balanced vanilla cupcakes that can be adapted to suit any flavor preference.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcake Batter:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice)

For the Frosting (Optional):

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Cups

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer.
2. Continue beating for 3–5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring gently.
2. Pour in buttermilk and mix until incorporated.
3. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Avoid overmixing—just combine until no flour streaks remain.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full with batter.
2. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)

1. Beat softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and milk or heavy cream until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
4. Add food coloring if desired.

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

1. Spread or pipe the frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
2. Garnish with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or fruit.
3. Enjoy fresh, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes:

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Avoid overmixing to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
• Test with a toothpick to ensure the center is fully baked.
• Experiment with flavors by adding lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder.

These cupcakes are simple, delicious, and versatile! Would you like variations, like chocolate or red velvet versions? Let’s make your cupcakes even more special.