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Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes
John

Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes

Moist, fluffy vanilla cupcakes with simple vanilla frosting, perfect for any celebration.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened for frosting
  • 2 cups powdered sugar for frosting
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract for frosting
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream for frosting
  • pinch salt for frosting

Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Piping bag (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
  5. Divide batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
  7. For frosting, beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and salt. Adjust consistency as needed.
  8. Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months.