Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe for Celebrations

There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of vanilla wafting through the air, announcing that something beautiful and delicious is in the works. Our Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe will capture your heart and tantalize your taste buds, transforming any event into a celebration. With fluffy textures and a rich, creamy frosting that invites indulgence, these cupcakes are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself.

Imagine being surrounded by friends, laughter, and the delightful sight of sprinkles adorning your freshly baked cupcakes. This recipe not only promises a burst of vanilla flavor but also brings joy and nostalgia. Whether reminiscing about childhood birthdays or creating new memories, these cupcakes are sure to be the highlight of any occasion, captivating all those who take a bite. Get ready to unleash your inner baker and impress everyone around you with these irresistible treats.

Ingredients for Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe:

1 3/4 cups cake flour – This gives the cupcakes a light and fluffy texture. Make sure to measure accurately for the best results.

1 cup granulated sugar – For just the right amount of sweetness that balances perfectly with the vanilla.

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – This leavening agent ensures that your cupcakes rise beautifully.

1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Another leavening agent to keep your cupcakes light and airy.

1/2 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.

1/4 cup salted butter – Use softened butter for richness and depth of flavor in your batter.

2 large eggs – These act as binders and add moisture.

1/3 cup full-fat sour cream – This ingredient adds moisture and a delightful tang.

1/4 cup vegetable oil – Ensures your cupcakes are sinfully moist and tender.

1 tablespoon vanilla extract – The star of the show that provides that iconic vanilla flavor.

2/3 cup whole milk – Adds moisture and helps create that desired cake-like texture.

1 cup salted butter (for frosting) – For a luxurious, creamy frosting that’s hard to resist.

4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it airy and fluffy.

1/4 cup heavy cream – Helps achieve the ideal frosting consistency, making it easy to pipe.

1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for frosting) – Adds an extra layer of flavor to your frosting that complements the cupcakes perfectly.

Optional: Sprinkles – Because who can resist sparkles on a cupcake?

How to Make Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two cupcake pans with about 16 cupcake liners. This is where the magic will happen!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This dry mix is crucial for fluffy cupcakes.

Step 3: Cream the Butter
Add the room temperature butter to the dry mixture and beat on medium-low speed for about 3 minutes, scraping down the sides occasionally. You’re looking for a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until everything is beautifully combined. This mixture will enhance the cupcakes’ moistness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the wet mixture to the flour mixture and beat at medium speed for 30 seconds. Gradually add the whole milk while reducing the speed to low until just incorporated. Don’t overmix; we want those fluffy cupcakes!

Step 6: Bake
Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them just over halfway. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack. This is the moment of truth!

Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This frosting has some serious personality!

Step 8: Combine Frosting Ingredients
Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the butter, mixing on low speed for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl, then beat on medium speed for an additional 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency
If the frosting seems too thin, gradually add 1 to 2 cups more powdered sugar. If too thick, add a tiny splash of heavy cream until you achieve your desired consistency.

For the ultimate finishing touch, you can pipe the frosting generously on top of your cooled cupcakes and, if you’re feeling festive, sprinkle on some colorful sprinkles. Present them at your next gathering, and watch as everyone fights for a second helping. Enjoy every delightful bite of these Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe and indulge in a little baking nostalgia today.

Perfecting Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your cake batter while it warms up. Mix your dry ingredients first, then incorporate wet ingredients to save time and ensure even distribution. Finally, fill your cupcake liners and bake them to golden perfection.

Add Your Touch to Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

Feel free to swap cake flour for all-purpose flour or add a hint of almond extract to the batter for a twist. You can also mix in chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles to make them even more festive and fun!

Storing & Reheating Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

Store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, freeze them without frosting for up to two months, then frost once thawed.

Baking these cupcakes reminds me of my childhood. I can still hear my delighted niece’s giggles as she devoured two cupcakes in quick succession—what a sweet victory for the home chef!

FAQs About Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

What is Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe?

The Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for celebrations of all kinds. This recipe features light and fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with a rich, creamy buttercream frosting. Made with simple ingredients, these cupcakes are not only a joy to bake but also to eat, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a sweet indulgence, these cupcakes bring warmth and happiness to the table.

How long can I store Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream?

You can store your Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing the cupcakes without the frosting. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cupcakes and add the buttercream frosting before serving. This method maintains their freshness and flavor.

Can I make substitutions in the Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe?

Absolutely! The beauty of the Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe is its flexibility. While cake flour gives the best texture, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. If you’re feeling adventurous, add almond extract or mix in chocolate chips for a twist. You could also use unsweetened cocoa powder in part of the batter for a chocolate variation. Get creative and make this recipe your own!

What occasions are best suited for Festive Vanilla Cupcakes?

The Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe is perfect for many occasions. From birthdays to weddings, holidays to cozy gatherings, these cupcakes are a hit. They lend themselves beautifully to themed decorations for events like Halloween or Valentine’s Day by simply changing the toppings or colors of the buttercream. Anyone looking to add a sweet touch to their celebrations will find these cupcakes delightful and easy to enjoy.

Conclusion for Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

The Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in itself. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create beautiful and delicious cupcakes that will charm your guests. Remember to store them properly for lasting enjoyment and feel free to personalize the recipe to suit your taste. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, this recipe guarantees smiles all around!

Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Recipe

Enjoy these Festive Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream, perfect for any celebration with a delightful balance of flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 16 cupcakes

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 3/4 cups cake flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup salted butter room temperature
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1/3 cup full-fat sour cream
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 1 cup salted butter room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Optional: sprinkles

Equipment

• Cupcake pans
• mixing bowls
• whisk
• Electric mixer
• Cupcake liners

Method

 

Baking Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two cupcake pans with about 16 cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
3. Add the room temperature butter to the dry mixture and beat on medium-low speed for 3 minutes, scraping down the sides occasionally.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Add the wet mixture to the flour mixture and beat at medium speed for 30 seconds. Then reduce to low speed and gradually add the whole milk until just incorporated.
6. Spoon the batter into cupcake liners, filling them just over halfway. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Making Buttercream Frosting

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract and mix on low speed for 1 minute. Scrape the bowl and beat on medium speed for 2 more minutes until smooth and creamy.
3. If frosting is too thin, add 1-2 cups more powdered sugar. If too thick, add heavy cream gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupcakeCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 3gFat: 18g

Notes

These cupcakes can be customized with various mix-ins or flavors like almond extract. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze without frosting for up to two months.

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