Vanilla Cupcake Recipe

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Introduction

The vanilla cupcake recipe stands as a cornerstone of baking, beloved globally for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. From birthday parties to casual afternoon teas, this classic treat adapts to countless occasions. Its enduring popularity stems from its versatility; the basic vanilla cupcake serves as a blank canvas for diverse icings, toppings, and fillings. Mastering this recipe unlocks a world of baking possibilities, making it an essential skill for home cooks and aspiring bakers alike.

Ingredients

The foundation of a perfect vanilla cupcake recipe involves carefully measured ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cups (192 grams), provides structure. Cake flour can be substituted for a lighter texture.
• Granulated Sugar: cup (150 grams), adds sweetness and moisture.
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoons (6 grams), leavens the cupcakes, ensuring a light and airy rise.
• Salt: teaspoon (1.5 grams), enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: cup (113 grams), softened, contributes richness and flavor.
• Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature, emulsify the batter and add structure.
• Whole Milk: cup (120 ml), provides moisture and aids in binding the ingredients. Buttermilk can be substituted for a tangier flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoons (7.5 ml), the key flavoring ingredient. Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best results. Vanilla bean paste can also be used.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful vanilla cupcake recipe:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Accurate oven temperature is essential for even baking.
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This prevents sticking and allows for easy removal. Alternatively, grease and flour the muffin tin.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a tender cupcake. Use a stand mixer or a hand mixer.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure the eggs are fully incorporated.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
6. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cupcakes. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which results in a dense texture.
7. Stir in Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.

Tip: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother batter.

Cooking Instructions

The baking process determines the final outcome of the vanilla cupcake recipe:

1. Fill Muffin Cups: Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing. A cookie scoop can be used for consistent portioning.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on the oven.
3. Cool: Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cupcakes from sticking to the tin and allows them to cool evenly.

Recommended Time and Temperature: 350F (175C) for 18-20 minutes. Monitor the cupcakes closely towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.

Serving Suggestions

The vanilla cupcake recipe shines with endless serving possibilities:

• Classic Vanilla Frosting: Top with a traditional vanilla buttercream frosting for a simple and elegant treat.
• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle with a rich chocolate ganache for a decadent dessert.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a dollop of fresh fruit compote or a berry sauce for a refreshing twist.
• Sprinkles: Decorate with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Filled Cupcakes: Core the cupcakes and fill with pastry cream, lemon curd, or fruit preserves.

Vanilla cupcakes pair well with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee or tea, or even a sparkling wine for a celebratory occasion.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Avoid these common pitfalls for baking the perfect vanilla cupcake recipe:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature for even baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients emulsify better, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Overfilling the Muffin Cups: Overfilling can cause the cupcakes to overflow and create a messy result.
• Overbaking: Overbaking can lead to dry cupcakes. Check for doneness using a toothpick test.
• Not Measuring Accurately: Baking is a science, accurate measurements are a must for consistent results.

Tip: Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking for even browning.

Explore More Cooking Guides

The vanilla cupcake recipe offers a delightful entry point into the world of baking. Its simplicity belies its versatility, making it a treat enjoyed across cultures and generations. Its adaptability to different frostings, fillings, and toppings allows for personal expression and creativity in the kitchen. Embrace the joy of baking this classic dessert at home and discover the endless possibilities it offers. For more exciting culinary adventures and delicious recipes, explore our cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com. Happy baking!