Soft, buttery, and full of pure vanilla flavor — these cupcakes are a timeless favorite, topped with a cloud of smooth vanilla buttercream. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a sweet afternoon treat!

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📝 Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature

For the Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 3–4 cups (360–480g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

5. Add the dry ingredients in two batches, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

6. Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.

7. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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2. Make the Vanilla Buttercream:

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and pale (about 2 minutes).

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well between additions.

3. Add vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream or milk. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth (2–3 minutes). Add an extra tablespoon of cream if needed for a softer texture.

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3. Assemble & Decorate:

• Once cupcakes are completely cool, pipe the buttercream onto each using a star or round tip.

• Decorate with sprinkles, edible pearls, or your favorite toppings for a festive finish! ✨

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📌 Tips:

• For a fun twist, add a drop of food coloring to your frosting.

• Want to prep ahead? Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

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Makes: 12 cupcakes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Calories: ~380 kcal per cupcake (with frosting)