If you’re searching for a treat that captures pure joy in every bite, look no further than these Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes. Light, fluffy, and infused with the warm hug of pure vanilla, this recipe is a little celebration in every wrapper. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a special family dinner, or a Tuesday afternoon craving, these cupcakes always rise to the occasion. I can’t wait for you to taste why they truly earn the name Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
We’re keeping things delightfully straightforward here! Each ingredient arrives with an essential role, working in harmony to deliver gorgeous texture and that crave-worthy vanilla flavor. Don’t skimp or swap—these are your secret weapons for Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone that holds your cupcakes together while keeping them tender.
- Baking powder: Gives a beautiful lift and dome to each cupcake, so they’re as pretty as they are delicious.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances sweetness and wakes up the vanilla flavor.
- Unsalted butter (room temperature): Creamed to fluffy perfection, this adds rich moisture and that classic bakery taste.
- Granulated sugar: The sweetener that helps achieve fluffy texture and a perfectly golden crumb.
- Large eggs (room temperature): Create structure and contribute to moistness and stability.
- Pure vanilla extract: The star of the show—go for the real deal to get that signature vanilla depth.
- Whole milk (room temperature): Keeps the batter supple and the crumb extra soft.
- Sour cream (room temperature): The secret weapon for super-moist, melt-in-your-mouth cupcakes.
- Sprinkles for garnish (optional): Because who can resist a little extra fun on top?
- Your favorite frosting for topping: The crowning glory—choose buttercream, cream cheese, or go wild with chocolate!
How to Make Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes
Step 1: Prep Your Equipment
Start your cupcake adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. This little bit of prep work means zero sticking and perfectly shaped cupcakes every time. Trust me, setting up your equipment first makes the whole process feel smooth and relaxed.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. Take just a moment longer to whisk well—you’re setting the stage for even, gentle rising and a tender, uniform crumb. Set this bowl aside, ready for its turn to shine.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together at medium speed using an electric mixer for about 2–3 minutes. You’re aiming for a fluffy, pale mixture here. This step traps air and creates beautiful lightness in your Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and blend again. At this moment, your kitchen is already starting to smell incredible—those hints of rich, real vanilla will come through in every bite.
Step 5: Mix the Milk and Sour Cream
In a separate bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the whole milk and sour cream. This powerful duo guarantees cupcakes that are moist, fluffy, and never dry. Make sure both are at room temperature for the smoothest batter later.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry in Three Parts
With the mixer on low, add about one-third of the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture. Follow with half of the milk-sour cream mixture, mixing gently after each addition. Repeat, and finish with the remaining dry mixture. Mixing in three parts keeps the batter silky and prevents overmixing, which is key for soft and Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes.
Step 7: Fill and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 8: Cool and Frost
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely—patience will pay off when you frost! Once your cupcakes are cool to the touch, top with your favorite frosting and don’t hold back on the sprinkles if you’re feeling festive.
How to Serve Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes
Garnishes
The beauty of Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes is that they play nicely with just about any garnish. Swirl your frosting sky-high and finish with a handful of colorful sprinkles, delicate edible flowers, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for understated elegance. For a delicate crunch, try chopped toasted nuts or white chocolate curls. Let your creativity shine!
Side Dishes
For a party, pair your cupcakes with fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or a fruit salad for a well-balanced dessert plate. If you’re feeling luxurious, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce alongside each cupcake is pure magic. Hot coffee, chilled milk, or even a glass of bubbly will complement the soft vanilla notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation matters! Arrange your cupcakes on a tiered stand for a show-stopping centerpiece, or nestle them in vintage teacups for a sweet tea party vibe. For birthdays, decorate each Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcake with candles or theme toppers. Or take them on-the-go by tucking individual cupcakes into cute boxes for lunchbox surprises or picnic treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your freshly made Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes will stay soft and lovely for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’ve already frosted them, just make sure the frosting isn’t too soft—otherwise, store in the fridge and let them come to room temp before serving for that perfect bite.
Freezing
If you’d like to get ahead for a special occasion, you can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months. Let them cool completely, wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready and frost as usual—no one will ever guess they weren’t baked fresh that day.
Reheating
To refresh a cupcake (especially if chilled or defrosted), let it sit out to return to room temp—this helps restore the softness. Avoid microwaving frosted cupcakes as it can melt the frosting; instead, if you must, zap unfrosted cupcakes in the microwave for just a few seconds to revive their tender crumb.
FAQs
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Absolutely! The Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes recipe doubles beautifully. Just be sure to use two muffin pans and rotate them halfway through baking for even results. You’ll have enough crowd-pleasing treats for everyone to enjoy.
Why do all the ingredients need to be at room temperature?
Room temperature butter, eggs, milk, and sour cream blend more easily, ensuring a smoother batter and tender, evenly baked cupcakes. Cold dairy can cause the batter to curdle and the cupcakes to bake unevenly.
Which frosting pairs best with Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes?
You can’t go wrong with classic vanilla buttercream, but cream cheese frosting or a luscious chocolate ganache are all fabulous choices. The delicate flavor of these cupcakes means they pair well with almost anything.
Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk?
You can substitute whole milk with a milk alternative in a pinch, but for optimal flavor and that signature moistness in Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes, stick with whole milk or your creamiest plant-based alternative. Avoid anything too watery for best results.
How do I keep cupcakes from sticking to the liners?
Be sure to use high-quality cupcake liners and let the cupcakes cool completely before peeling. A gentle, slow peel (rather than a quick yank!) helps keep your cupcakes intact and picture-perfect.
Final Thoughts
Baking a batch of Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes is guaranteed to brighten any day and bring smiles to all who taste them. I hope you fall in love with their soft crumb, gentle vanilla flavor, and endless decorating possibilities. Don’t wait for a special occasion—go treat yourself and enjoy the cupcake joy!
Print
Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Simply Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes are a classic dessert that is easy to make and a crowd-pleaser. Light, fluffy, and full of vanilla flavor, these homemade cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (room temperature)
Additional:
- sprinkles for garnish (optional)
- your favorite frosting for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the milk and sour cream. Add the dry ingredients and milk mixture alternately to the butter mixture.
- Bake: Fill cupcake liners with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes until done.
- Cool and Frost: Let cupcakes cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Frost with your favorite frosting and top with sprinkles.
Notes
- For extra moist cupcakes, use full-fat sour cream.
- These cupcakes pair well with buttercream, cream cheese, or chocolate frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (without frosting)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
