Vanilla Frosted Cupcake Bliss

Name: Vanilla Frosted Cupcake Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes

I absolutely love making Vanilla Frosted Cupcake Bliss for any occasion. These cupcakes are light, fluffy, and topped with a rich vanilla frosting that is simply irresistible. The combination of the warm vanilla flavor with a hint of sweetness makes them a go-to treat in my kitchen. Whether it’s for a birthday party or just a cozy afternoon treat with friends, these cupcakes never fail to bring smiles. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, allowing me to whip them up quickly whenever the craving strikes.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:13:08.810Z

I remember the first time I baked these Vanilla Frosted Cupcakes; they turned out to be the highlight of my friend's birthday party. My secret? Using high-quality vanilla extract really elevates the flavor profile, making each cupcake a delightful treat. I think the little details matter, especially when it comes to baking.

Over the years, I have experimented with various frostings, but this creamy vanilla buttercream is my absolute favorite. The thick consistency gives each cupcake a generous swirl and the perfect amount of sweetness. Always remember to allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting; this ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and keeps its beautiful shape.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously fluffy texture with a hint of vanilla warmth
Rich, creamy frosting that makes every bite heavenly
Perfect for a variety of occasions, from birthdays to casual get-togethers

Key Techniques for Perfect Cupcakes

To achieve beautifully fluffy cupcakes, ensure that you properly cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and airy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is crucial for the cupcake’s rise. When creaming, aim for about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed, watching for a pale color and fluffy texture.

Another essential tip for perfecting your cupcakes is the mixing technique when combining wet and dry ingredients. Add these in alternating batches—start with the dry ingredients followed by milk. This helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined; small lumps are perfectly fine.

Understanding Ingredients and Their Roles

The choice of flour can significantly affect the texture of your cupcakes. All-purpose flour strikes a perfect balance between structure and tenderness. If you're looking for a lighter cake, consider using cake flour for a more delicate crumb. However, if you need a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work well, providing a good rise and flavor.

When it comes to frosting, the type of butter you use can change the consistency of your vanilla frosting. Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the salt level, while using cold butter can result in a denser frosting. For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature and cream it thoroughly with the sugar before adding any liquid ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Vanilla Frosted Cupcake Bliss:

Cupcake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

3 cups powdered sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons milk

With everything on hand, you’re ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your scrumptious cupcakes:

Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.

Fill the Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Prepare the frosting by beating together the butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Frost the cooled cupcakes generously and enjoy!

Now, enjoy your delicious Vanilla Frosted Cupcake Bliss!

Pro Tips

If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the frosting. It creates a beautiful balance with the sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Vanilla Frosted Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to make them in advance, consider baking the cupcakes ahead of time and storing them unfrosted. Once cool, place them in a sealed container layered with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Frost them just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and luscious.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes. Wrap each cooled cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before frosting, ensuring they remain moist.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These cupcakes are incredibly versatile. For a fun twist, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for an enhanced flavor profile. You can also incorporate chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed nuts into the batter for added texture and surprise flavors.

For special occasions, consider decorating your cupcakes with festive toppings such as edible glitter, fruit slices, or themed sprinkles. A drizzle of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce can elevate the vanilla frosting, creating a beautiful presentation while adding extra indulgence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour can be used for an even lighter texture in your cupcakes.

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes! You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months. Just make sure they're wrapped well.

→ What can I substitute for eggs in the recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute, which works well in this recipe.