Classic Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion- VLOGMAS DAY 15

Cake week ends with the classic vanilla cupcake recipe! I can't believe its day 15 of #VLOGMAS2021! We are almost done and I'm so excited for the fourth and fifth week of this challenge. Easy to make but delicious AF! If you're on the hunt for a timeless dessert that pleases both young and old, look no further than our Classic Vanilla Cupcakes. These moist and fluffy cupcakes are a quintessential favorite, perfect for birthdays, afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth cravings. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof.  Hope you enjoy this recipe and let me know which is your favorite cake week recipe! 

Who Is This Recipe For?

This Classic Vanilla Cupcakes recipe is designed for anyone who appreciates the simplicity and elegance of a classic dessert. It's perfect for:

• Home Bakers: If you're new to baking, these cupcakes are an excellent starting point. You'll master the basics of cupcake making and enjoy the delicious results.
• Seasoned Bakers: Even experienced bakers will appreciate the nostalgia and comforting taste of these cupcakes. They are also an ideal canvas for creativity and decoration.
• Parents and Kids: Baking with kids is a fantastic way to spend quality time together. These cupcakes are easy enough for little helpers and a great introduction to the world of baking.
• Party Planners: Planning a celebration? Classic Vanilla Cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with various frostings and toppings to match your party theme.
• Vanilla Lovers: If you're a vanilla enthusiast, you'll be in heaven with the rich, aromatic flavor of these cupcakes.

INGREDIENTS 

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• 2 1/2 Cups All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and texture for the cupcakes.
• 1 1/2 Teaspoon Baking Powder: The leavening agent that makes the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
• 200g Butter/Margarine: Adds moisture and a rich, buttery flavor to the cupcakes.
• 1 1/4 Cup Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes to perfection.
• 4 Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cupcakes' moisture.
• 1 Cup Mala/Buttermilk: Keeps the cupcakes tender and moist.
• 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Essence: Infuses the cupcakes with that classic, irresistible vanilla flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You'll Need

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Cupcake Liners: These ensure your cupcakes come out of the pan easily and in perfect shape.
• Cupcake Pan: You'll need a standard 12-cup muffin tin to bake your cupcakes.
• Mixing Bowls: Use one for dry ingredients and another for wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: While you can mix by hand, an electric mixer makes the process smoother and quicker.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking.
• Spatula: For gently folding ingredients together.
• Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling your cupcakes evenly after baking.
• Piping Bag and Tips (optional): If you want to get creative with frosting designs.

Directions: Crafting the Perfect Classic Vanilla Cupcakes

Now, let's get to the fun part: baking these scrumptious Classic Vanilla Cupcakes step by step!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cupcake Pan

Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners. This not only prevents sticking but also makes for a neat presentation.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Use a whisk to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter (or margarine) and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes of mixing.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla essence until well incorporated.

Step 6: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, add the flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture in alternating batches. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cupcakes.

Step 7: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for the best results.
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
• Customize Frosting: These cupcakes pair beautifully with various frostings like classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
• Decorate Creatively: Get creative with decorations! Sprinkles, edible flowers, or even a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the cupcakes' presentation.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Vanilla Cupcakes: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful twist.
• Lemon-Vanilla Cupcakes: Add some lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to the batter for a zesty flavor.
• Fruit-Filled Cupcakes: Fill the center of each cupcake with your favorite fruit jam or jelly for a fruity surprise.

FAQ: Your Burning Cupcake Questions Answered

How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cupcake batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Wrap the cupcakes individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Perfect Pairings

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes are incredibly versatile and pair well with various beverages and accompaniments:

• Classic Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, enjoy your cupcakes with a steaming mug of hot chocolate.
• Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes of Earl Grey tea complement the vanilla flavor beautifully.