One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Name: One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Delight in the simplicity of One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting, perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:53:19.052Z

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are not just easy to make, but they are also incredibly delicious. With a light and fluffy texture combined with a rich buttercream frosting, they are a joy to eat and perfect for any celebration.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fluffy and moist cupcakes that melt in your mouth
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to casual treats

      

The Perfect Cupcake Experience

Cupcakes are a classic treat that brings joy to any gathering, and these One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are no exception. Their light and fluffy texture makes them an instant favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these cupcakes are sure to impress. The simplicity of the recipe allows anyone, from novice bakers to seasoned pros, to whip up a batch without any fuss.

What sets these cupcakes apart is their delightful vanilla flavor, which is rich yet balanced. Each bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs beautifully with the creamy buttercream frosting. The combination of the moist cupcake and the sweet frosting creates a harmonious blend that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Plus, with minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy homemade cupcakes any day of the week!

Customization Options

One of the greatest advantages of this vanilla cupcake recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavor to suit any occasion. For a chocolate twist, simply substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. If you want to add a fruity touch, try folding in some fresh berries or citrus zest into the batter before baking. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative and make these cupcakes uniquely yours.

Additionally, when it comes to frosting, you can experiment with different flavors to match your theme. Consider adding a splash of almond extract, or even incorporating some melted chocolate into the buttercream for a decadent twist. You can also add food coloring to the frosting for festive occasions, making your cupcakes visually appealing and delicious!

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even a slight variation can affect the texture and flavor of your cupcakes. Use a kitchen scale for precision, or level off your measuring cups with a straight edge for dry ingredients. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened but not melted; this will help incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cupcake.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, which is not the desired outcome. Lastly, let your cupcakes cool completely before frosting; this will prevent the frosting from melting off and ensure a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Buttercream Frosting

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

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.

Mix everything together until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Line a cupcake tin with liners and fill each cup about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well. Add the vanilla and enough cream to achieve your desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes have cooled, generously frost each one with the buttercream frosting using a spatula or piping bag.

Enjoy your homemade vanilla cupcakes!

Storage and Shelf Life

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them for later enjoyment. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you prefer to freeze your cupcakes, you can do so before or after frosting. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, but pairing them with the right beverages can elevate your dessert experience. For a classic touch, serve them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. If you’re hosting a party, consider offering a variety of flavored coffees or even sparkling lemonade to complement the sweetness of the cupcakes.

For a more festive touch, top your cupcakes with sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh fruit to create eye-catching presentations. These small details make a big impact, especially at celebrations like birthdays, baby showers, or holiday gatherings. Your guests will be impressed not just by the taste but also by the beautiful presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container.

→ How can I make the frosting less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

→ Can I use a different flavor extract?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with almond, lemon, or any flavor extract you like.

→ What can I do with leftover frosting?

Leftover frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just re-whip it before using.