Name: Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups (163g) all-purpose flour (measured correctly); 1 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup (155g) sugar; 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp (150ml) milk; 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 4 cups (460g) powdered sugar; 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract; 2-3 tbsp (30-45ml) water or milk; Pinch or two of salt

If you’ve ever craved a sweet, fluffy treat that tastes like a little piece of heaven, then this Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. With tender crumb, perfectly balanced vanilla flavor, and a luscious homemade buttercream frosting, these cupcakes are the kind of classic comfort dessert that always brings smiles. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe promises simple steps and delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a metal mixing bowl filled with smooth, creamy batter that has a pale off-white color. Part of the batter clings softly to a white flat beater attached to a mixer, which is partly resting inside the bowl. The texture looks thick and soft, with some batter spread evenly along the sides of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Nothing fancy here—just straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create cupcakes bursting with vanilla goodness and perfectly soft textures. Every item plays a crucial role, from the all-purpose flour giving structure, to the butter and oil ensuring moistness, and the vanilla extract infusing that unmistakable sweet fragrance.

1 1/4 cups (163g) all-purpose flour: Use measured flour for the best structure and softness.
1 1/4 tsp baking powder: This helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and be airy.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, room temperature: Brings rich flavor and tender crumb.
3/4 cup (155g) sugar: Sweetens while also helping with moisture.
2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil: Adds extra moistness for tender cupcakes.
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: The star flavor that makes these cupcakes irresistible.
2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp (150ml) milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting): Creates creamy, dreamy buttercream frosting.
4 cups (460g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Continues the vanilla theme in the frosting for harmony.
2-3 tbsp (30-45ml) water or milk: Adjusts the frosting’s consistency to silky perfection.
Pinch or two of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness to keep flavors bright.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (176°C) and lining a cupcake pan with liners. Then, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Having your dry ingredients ready lets you blend everything quickly and smoothly.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, Oil, and Vanilla

Beat the butter, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This creaming step is where you start creating that soft texture everyone loves.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs one by one, mixing after each addition until mostly combined. Be sure to scrape down the bowl’s sides to incorporate all ingredients fully. This careful mixing keeps the batter balanced and smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add half of your dry mixture and mix just until combined. Slowly pour in the milk, mixing until blended—don’t worry if the batter looks curdled; that’s perfectly normal. Finish by adding the remaining dry ingredients, mixing until smooth but avoid overmixing which can make cupcakes tough.

Step 5: Bake Your Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about 3/4 full and slide the pan into the oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. When done, set the cupcakes on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Beat the butter in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add half of the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Stir in the vanilla, a tablespoon or two of water or milk, and salt, blending well. Add the remaining powdered sugar and continue beating until silky. Adjust consistency with more liquid if needed to get that perfect pipeable frosting.

Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes

Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip. I love using Ateco tip 844 for a classic swirl that looks just as delicious as it tastes!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

A metal cupcake tray holds twelve freshly baked yellow cupcakes, each in a white paper liner. The cupcakes have a soft, smooth texture on top and fill the tray evenly. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, with soft natural light highlighting the light golden color of the cakes. The background is out of focus, keeping attention on the cupcakes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The beauty of this Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe is how versatile it is for garnishing. Try adding fresh berries, a sprinkle of colorful sugar crystals, or even edible flowers on top for a stunning visual. A little dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder can add a hint of surprise flavor and make each cupcake uniquely yours.

Side Dishes

While cupcakes are a treat on their own, pairing them with a light cup of tea, a glass of cold milk, or even a fresh fruit salad makes a delightful combo. Think about serving alongside whipped cream or a tangy berry compote to balance the sweet richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation counts, and these cupcakes lend themselves so well to creative flair. Try serving them in pretty cupcake stands for parties, placing them in individual clear boxes for gifts, or arranging them on a rustic wooden board for casual get-togethers. Adding themed toppers or personalized flags can turn them into real showstoppers for celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, well covered, for up to 2-3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the frosting smooth without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, cupcakes freeze beautifully. Place unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer bag or container, separated by parchment to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw completely before frosting and serving.

Reheating

Since cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can gently warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5-7 minutes to revive softness after refrigeration. Avoid microwaving as it may cause uneven heating or melt the frosting undesirably.

FAQs

Can I substitute ingredients in this Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free milk alternatives or swap vegetable oil for melted coconut oil for a twist. Just keep the quantities the same and be mindful of any changes in texture or flavor.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the centre; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. The cupcakes should also spring back lightly when touched.

Can I make the buttercream frosting ahead of time?

Yes! Buttercream can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature and re-whip briefly before frosting your cupcakes.

What’s the best way to get a fluffy, moist cupcake texture?

Don’t skip the creaming step and avoid overmixing your batter once the flour is added. Also, using both butter and oil helps maintain moistness while keeping the texture tender and soft.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe?

Definitely! Try folding in berries, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking. You can also infuse the vanilla extract with lemon or almond for unique flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Easy Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe is like wrapping a warm hug in cupcake form. It’s simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and always adored by everyone who tries it. Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re a seasoned pro, these cupcakes bring joy with every bite. So preheat that oven, grab your mixing bowl, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these little vanilla dreams!