One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Name: One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

These easy One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are fluffy, moist, and topped with a rich buttercream frosting, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:57:18.920Z

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are not only simple to make, but they also bring joy to any celebration. The combination of vanilla and butter creates a delightful flavor that everyone will love!

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Fluffy and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Quick and easy one-bowl method for minimal cleanup
Perfectly paired with a creamy buttercream frosting

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Whether it's a birthday party, a casual family gathering, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are the perfect addition to any occasion. Their fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor can satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Plus, with the delightful buttercream frosting on top, these cupcakes are both visually appealing and delicious, making them a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

These cupcakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them for various occasions by adding different toppings, such as sprinkles, fruit, or even chocolate chips. This adaptability means you can easily transform a simple cupcake into a themed treat for holidays, celebrations, or just a fun afternoon snack.

Easy One-Bowl Method

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. The one-bowl method means you can skip the hassle of multiple bowls and minimize cleanup time. This is especially beneficial for busy bakers or those who are just starting their baking journey. In just a few easy steps, you can have a batch of delicious cupcakes ready to be enjoyed.

This one-bowl technique allows you to focus on the joy of baking rather than getting bogged down by complicated processes. With just a whisk and a spatula, you can create a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. The ease of this recipe makes it a fantastic choice for baking with kids or whipping up something sweet on a whim.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once you've baked and frosted your vanilla cupcakes, it's essential to know how to store them properly to maintain their freshness. These cupcakes can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For an added touch, consider serving these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This can elevate your simple cupcakes into a delightful dessert experience, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

Ingredients for Vanilla Cupcakes

Cupcake Ingredients

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

Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

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

Instructions for Buttercream Frosting

Instructions for Cupcakes

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Fill Cupcake Liners

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Frost Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with buttercream using a spatula or piping bag.

Enjoy Your Cupcakes!

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, it's important to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve the right ratios, especially with flour and sugar. Additionally, be sure to preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking and a great rise.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. This will help keep your cupcakes light and fluffy, preventing them from becoming dense.

Variations to Try

While the classic vanilla flavor is always a hit, there are numerous variations you can try to keep things exciting. For a chocolate twist, simply substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give your cupcakes a unique flavor profile.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even candy pieces. These additions can create delightful surprises in every bite, making each cupcake unique and special.

Frosting Options

While this recipe features a delicious buttercream frosting, there are many other frosting options you can explore. Cream cheese frosting offers a tangy twist, perfect for pairing with carrot or spice cupcakes. For a lighter option, try whipped cream frosting, which adds a fluffy texture and can be flavored with various extracts.

You can also experiment with different colors and decorations for the frosting. Using food coloring and piping tips, you can create beautiful designs that not only taste good but look stunning as well. This is an excellent way to personalize your cupcakes for any event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture. Just adjust the measurement slightly.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

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

→ Can I freeze the cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I use instead of butter in the frosting?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if you want a non-dairy option.