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Simple Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe


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4.4 from 34 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Incorporate Sour Cream and Vanilla: Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract to add moisture and depth of flavor to the batter.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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