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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Food coloring (optional)

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

Delight in these easy, one-bowl vanilla cupcakes topped with a rich buttercream frosting. Perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:37:18.586Z

These one-bowl vanilla cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser! With their fluffy texture and sweet vanilla flavor, they are the perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you deserve something sweet. The buttercream frosting adds a creamy finish that takes these cupcakes to the next level.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Light and fluffy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Simple one-bowl method for easy cleanup
Deliciously sweet buttercream that complements the vanilla perfectly

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

These one-bowl vanilla cupcakes are the quintessential treat for any celebration, whether it's a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a simple afternoon snack. The light and fluffy texture makes them an instant favorite among both kids and adults. With their classic vanilla flavor, they can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with various toppings and decorations to match the theme of your event.

What sets these cupcakes apart is their versatility. You can easily customize them by adding chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even fresh fruit to the batter. This means you can make a batch that suits everyone’s taste preferences. No matter how you choose to serve them, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy and smiles to your table.

Simple Steps for Success

One of the best features of this recipe is its simplicity. The one-bowl method not only saves time but also minimizes cleanup, making it a great option for novice bakers or anyone short on time. You can mix all the ingredients in a single bowl, which means less hassle and more time to enjoy your delicious creations. It’s a fantastic way to introduce baking to your kids, allowing them to be part of the fun without getting overwhelmed.

Make sure to follow the steps closely, especially when it comes to mixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, while undermixing may result in lumps. Aim for a smooth texture without any visible dry ingredients. This attention to detail will yield perfectly fluffy cupcakes that you’ll be proud to share.

Frosting that Steals the Show

No cupcake is complete without a generous swirl of frosting, and this buttercream is truly special. Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet, it complements the vanilla cupcakes beautifully. The addition of milk gives it a smooth consistency that’s easy to spread or pipe, depending on your preference. Not only does it taste divine, but it also adds an appealing visual element to your cupcakes.

Feel free to get creative with colors and flavors. A few drops of food coloring can transform your buttercream into a rainbow of possibilities, making your cupcakes even more festive. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to create unique flavor profiles. This frosting is a versatile base that allows you to personalize your treats for any occasion.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious vanilla cupcakes:

For the Cupcakes

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Buttercream Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients, let's start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cupcakes:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Cupcake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Buttercream Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, prepare the buttercream frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth.

Add milk and vanilla extract, and beat until fluffy. If desired, add food coloring.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, spread or pipe the buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake.

Your delicious vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting are now ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

To ensure your cupcakes rise evenly, always make sure your baking powder is fresh. An expired leavening agent can lead to flat cupcakes that lack the desired height and fluffiness. Additionally, measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial; consider using a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.

Another great tip is to allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly. If you forget to take your eggs out in advance, you can place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes to quickly bring them to room temperature.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, but be aware that the frosting may firm up in colder temperatures. Before serving, allow them to come back to room temperature for the best taste and texture.

If you plan to make these cupcakes in advance, you can bake them and freeze them without frosting. Just wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature, whip up the buttercream, and frost them for a fresh, delightful treat.

Allergy-Friendly Alternatives

If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, there are several easy substitutions you can make to this recipe. For a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based butter and milk alternatives such as almond or oat milk. These swaps will not compromise the flavor or texture of your cupcakes, allowing everyone to enjoy a sweet treat.

For an egg-free option, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. Both options work wonderfully in baking and will help maintain the moisture and fluffiness of the cupcakes. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them before frosting.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.