Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

Name: Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsweetened whipped cream; Fresh berries for topping

It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. These vanilla cupcakes are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any celebration or a cozy afternoon treat. With their light and fluffy texture, topped with creamy frosting and fresh berries, they are sure to become a favorite. Bake a batch today and share the joy of homemade goodness!

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
Frosting: 1 cup unsweetened whipped cream
Fresh berries for topping

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 12 cupcakes. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cupcake) contains approximately 210 calories, 8g of fat, 32g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 14g of sugar. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
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 them cool completely before frosting with whipped cream and topping with fresh berries.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and coconut oil instead of butter.

Serving and Pairings

These vanilla cupcakes pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee. They make an excellent dessert for any occasion and are perfect for birthday parties or gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and frost just before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cupcakes.
Not measuring ingredients accurately may affect texture.
Opening the oven door too early may cause them to sink.
Using cold ingredients can impede proper mixing.
Not cooling cupcakes completely before frosting can cause melting.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation.
Test your oven temperature with an oven thermometer.
Experiment with different flavor extracts in the batter.
Top with seasonal fruits for a fresh twist.

FAQs

How can I make my cupcakes more moist?

Adding a little extra milk or incorporating sour cream can increase moisture in your cupcakes. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to dryness.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple glaze can elevate your vanilla cupcakes. Choose according to your preference.

What should I do if my cupcakes sink in the middle?

This often happens due to overmixing or opening the oven door too soon. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid disturbing the cupcakes while they bake.

Can I make mini cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes, simply reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they can bake faster than regular-sized cupcakes.

How do I know when my cupcakes are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this vanilla cupcake recipe is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a batch that will impress family and friends. Enjoy the sweet aroma and delicious taste that will make these cupcakes a staple in your baking repertoire.