One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

Delight in the simplicity of these One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe ensures a quick and easy baking experience.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T07:50:16.629Z

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are a staple for any home baker. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavor make them a go-to recipe for celebrations, birthdays, or just a sweet treat for yourself.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
  • Light and fluffy texture that everyone adores
  • Versatile for any occasion, from casual to festive

The Perfect Vanilla Cupcake

Vanilla cupcakes are a classic dessert loved by many for their light and fluffy texture. These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are no exception, offering a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy buttercream frosting. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to create these delicious treats without the fuss of complicated steps. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will impress family and friends alike.

What sets these vanilla cupcakes apart is their versatility. You can easily customize them for any occasion, whether it's a birthday party or a casual afternoon treat. Add sprinkles for a festive touch, or incorporate fresh fruit for a seasonal twist. The options are endless, making these cupcakes a go-to recipe for any baking enthusiast.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cupcakes turn out perfectly, measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise measurements, particularly for flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your butter is melted but not too hot, as this can affect the batter's consistency. Room temperature eggs and milk will also help create a smooth batter, contributing to the cupcakes' fluffy texture.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined to prevent the cupcakes from becoming dense. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they are done. Allowing the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting is crucial, as it prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are frosted, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store them for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. For best results, bring them to room temperature before serving, as this enhances their flavor and texture.

These cupcakes also make a fantastic base for various toppings and fillings. Consider adding fruit preserves between the cupcake and frosting for an added surprise. You can also experiment with different flavor extracts in the buttercream, such as almond or lemon, to match the theme of your celebration. Whatever the occasion, these cupcakes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup milk

For the Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Mix Cupcake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or knife to frost them with the buttercream frosting.

Enjoy your delicious vanilla cupcakes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.

What can I use instead of butter in the frosting? If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the frosting.

Pairing Suggestions

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve them with a glass of cold milk. If you're hosting a tea party, consider pairing them with herbal or green tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

For adults, a light sparkling wine or champagne can elevate the experience, making these cupcakes a perfect choice for celebrations. Don't forget to set out some fresh fruit or a fruit compote on the side for an extra burst of flavor!

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ What is the best way to frost cupcakes?

Using a piping bag with a star tip creates beautiful swirls, but you can also use a knife for a simple spread.

One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Delight in the simplicity of these One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes topped with creamy buttercream frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe ensures a quick and easy baking experience.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Sweet Ending Recipes

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes

What You'll Need

For the Cupcakes

  1. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  4. ½ teaspoon salt
  5. ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  6. 2 large eggs
  7. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  8. ½ cup milk

For the Buttercream Frosting

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 4 cups powdered sugar
  3. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  4. 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 03

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Step 04

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

Step 05

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or knife to frost them with the buttercream frosting.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 2g