Create bakery-style vanilla cupcakes at home that are incredibly soft, moist, and light. This easy recipe delivers the perfect texture for any celebration.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:12 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large egg whites, room temperature
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Buttercream: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream, pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse sand. This step helps create a tender crumb.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, milk, and vanilla extract until just combined.
With the mixer running on low speed, gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture in three additions, mixing until just blended after each addition. Do not overmix.
Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for 30 seconds until the batter is smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy, adding the remaining cream if needed for desired consistency.
Once cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the Simple Vanilla Buttercream on top.
Notes
For the best, fluffiest texture, ensure your butter, egg whites, and milk are all at true room temperature before starting.
Do not overmix the batter once the wet ingredients are added; this prevents tough cupcakes. Mix only until the streaks of flour disappear.
This recipe yields 12 perfect vanilla cupcakes, ideal for birthday celebrations or parties.