Vanilla Cupcakes Buttercream Frosting (Printable Version)

Soft vanilla cupcakes crowned with luscious buttercream, perfect for any occasion or casual indulgence.

# What You Need:

→ Cupcakes

01 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature

→ Buttercream Frosting

09 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
10 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - 2 tablespoons whole milk
12 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
13 - Pinch of salt

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
03 - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; then mix in vanilla extract.
05 - Add half of the flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour in milk, then add remaining flour mixture, mixing gently until just combined without overmixing.
06 - Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full.
07 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Beat softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Incorporate milk, vanilla, and salt; beat for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
09 - Once cooled, frost cupcakes generously with buttercream using a spatula or piping bag.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Classic vanilla flavor
  • Soft tender crumb
02 -
  • Add food coloring or sprinkles to the frosting for extra fun
  • Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
03 -
  • For a lighter frosting, substitute 1 tablespoon of milk with heavy cream
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender
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