5 Classic Vanilla Cupcake Recipes You Need to Try

Classic vanilla cupcakes are a timeless treat that bring a smile to any occasion. With their fluffy texture and rich flavor, they’re perfect for both easy family desserts and festive celebrations. Here’s a collection of the best recipes that will have you whipping up these delicious delights in no time!

Funfetti Cupcakes

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Funfetti cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic vanilla treat. Bursting with colorful sprinkles, they bring a festive vibe to any occasion. Each bite is light and fluffy, with a sweet cake base that perfectly complements the rich frosting on top.

This recipe is simple to make, making it great for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want to add some cheer to your day, these cupcakes are sure to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup rainbow sprinkles (plus more for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in the rainbow sprinkles gently, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting with your favorite buttercream. Top with additional sprinkles for extra fun!

Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

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Cinnamon-sugar swirl cupcakes bring a delightful twist to the classic vanilla treat. These cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and filled with a warm cinnamon flavor that perfectly complements the sweet vanilla frosting. The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a lovely contrast in taste, making each bite a little celebration on its own.

This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The cinnamon-sugar mixture is easy to prepare and adds a unique touch that will impress your friends and family. Get ready to enjoy a sweet treat that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and milk until combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and remaining cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar swirl.
6. Spoon half of the cupcake batter into the liners. Sprinkle a bit of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, then add the remaining batter and finish with another sprinkle of the cinnamon-sugar mix.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
8. Frost with your favorite vanilla frosting and enjoy your cinnamon-sugar swirl cupcakes!

Almond-Vanilla

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This almond-vanilla cupcake recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. The combination of almond extract and vanilla creates a rich flavor that makes every bite memorable. These cupcakes are simple to whip up, perfect for a casual gathering or a cozy treat at home.

Light and fluffy, with a hint of nuttiness, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Top them off with a creamy frosting and perhaps a sprinkle of chopped almonds for a touch of elegance. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack, they are a true delight!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• ½ cup milk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tray with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add in the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with the batter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let them cool before frosting with your favorite vanilla buttercream.

Vanilla Bean & Berries

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This Vanilla Bean & Berries cupcake recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the classic taste of vanilla with the freshness of juicy berries. The rich vanilla bean flavor makes each bite incredibly indulgent, while the berries add a pop of color and a burst of flavor that elevates these cupcakes beyond the ordinary. Best of all, this recipe is simple to follow, making it ideal for bakers of any level.

With a moist vanilla cupcake base topped with creamy vanilla frosting and adorned with fresh berries, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a picnic, or just want a sweet treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla bean paste, then mix until smooth.
3. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Once cooled, top with your favorite vanilla frosting and garnish with fresh mixed berries before serving.

Lemon-Vanilla

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Lemon-Vanilla cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic vanilla flavor. The light and fluffy texture of the cupcake is perfectly complemented by a zesty lemon frosting, creating a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a simple recipe, you’ll find these cupcakes easy to whip up, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

The combination of sweet vanilla and tangy lemon creates a vibrant flavor profile that brightens up any dessert table. Each bite offers a burst of sunshine, making them ideal for spring and summer gatherings. These cupcakes are sure to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (for frosting)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until fully combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the lemon frosting. Garnish with a slice of lemon if desired!