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 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 4 tablespoons milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the simplicity of these One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes, topped with luscious Buttercream Frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are as easy to make as they are delicious.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:59:20.533Z

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are the perfect treat for any celebration or just a sweet indulgence on a quiet afternoon. With their rich vanilla flavor and fluffy texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Quick and easy one-bowl recipe for hassle-free baking
Perfectly paired with creamy buttercream frosting

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are a fantastic addition to any celebration, from birthdays to casual get-togethers. Their delightful flavor and appealing appearance make them a hit among both children and adults. Whether you're hosting a party or just want to indulge in a sweet treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Their versatility allows you to customize them for different themes and occasions, making them a go-to dessert for all your baking needs.

Not only are they delicious, but their simplicity is what sets them apart. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can whip up a batch of these cupcakes in no time. This one-bowl recipe eliminates the hassle of multiple mixing bowls, allowing you to focus on the fun part: decorating and enjoying your creations!

Delicious Buttercream Frosting

The rich and creamy buttercream frosting is what elevates these vanilla cupcakes to the next level. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this frosting is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a classic vanilla flavor or want to experiment with colors and add-ins, the possibilities are endless. It's the perfect finishing touch that complements the light and fluffy texture of the cupcakes beautifully.

For those who might be concerned about sweetness, this buttercream can be adjusted to achieve your desired level. By simply adding more milk or reducing the sugar, you can create a frosting that suits your palate. Additionally, using high-quality vanilla extract will enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite truly unforgettable.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, start by using room temperature ingredients. Softened butter and eggs mix better, creating a smoother batter that leads to a fluffy cupcake. Additionally, be mindful of your mixing technique; overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, while undermixing can result in uneven textures. Aim for a smooth, well-combined batter without overdoing it.

Another important tip is to check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer if you have one. Ovens can often be off by several degrees, which can affect baking times and results. When in doubt, trust the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready to be taken out of the oven.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

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

For the Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

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

Fill the Cupcake Liners

Evenly distribute the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. To make the buttercream, beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Frost the cooled cupcakes as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or sprinkles to the batter before baking.

Storage and Freshness

To keep your One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance their flavor and texture.

If you want to make your cupcakes in advance, consider freezing them. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and frost as desired.

Customization Ideas

One of the best features of these cupcakes is their adaptability. You can easily switch up the flavor by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or citrus zest to the batter. For a fun twist, try incorporating different extracts such as almond or lemon for added flavor depth—your taste buds will thank you!

When it comes to frosting, consider experimenting with different toppings. You can add crushed cookies, fresh fruit, or even drizzle melted chocolate over the buttercream. These little additions not only enhance the flavor but also make your cupcakes visually stunning, perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

These One-Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve them alongside a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. The creamy texture of the buttercream complements the richness of these drinks, making for a satisfying treat.

For a more festive touch, consider serving the cupcakes at a dessert table alongside other sweet treats. They can be the star of your dessert spread or a lovely addition to a potluck. Either way, their charming appearance and delicious taste are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

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

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I use a different flavor for the frosting?

Absolutely! You can add cocoa powder for chocolate frosting or any flavor extract you prefer.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.