Description
These simple cupcakes are a classic, moist, and fluffy treat perfect for any occasion. With a balanced combination of butter, oil, and sour cream, they deliver a tender crumb and subtle vanilla flavor. Easy to prepare and bake, they require just basic ingredients and a straightforward method, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the flour.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the sugar and softened unsalted butter together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This step helps incorporate air into the batter for a tender crumb.
- Add Oil and Eggs: Add the vegetable oil and then the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them.
- Incorporate Sour Cream and Vanilla: Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract to add moisture and depth of flavor to the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate adding the milk and dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, mixing slowly to avoid overworking the batter. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
- Final Mixing: Do not overmix. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, gently folding any remaining flour into the batter.
- Bake: Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter as this can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results, especially eggs, butter, and sour cream.
- If desired, decorate cupcakes with your favorite frosting once completely cooled.
- Ensure cupcakes are baked until a toothpick comes out clean to avoid undercooking.
- You can substitute milk with any dairy-free milk alternative if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American