Cupcake Magic
Liam Reilly
| 03-04-2025
· Food Team
Have you ever taken a bite of a soft, fluffy cupcake and felt pure happiness? These tiny treats have been winning hearts all over the world with their delightful flavors and charming decorations.
Today, let’s dive into the world of cupcakes and, more importantly, learn how to bake the perfect batch at home!
What Exactly Is a Cupcake?
A cupcake is a small, single-serving cake baked in a paper or aluminum cup. Unlike large cakes that require slicing, cupcakes are easy to grab and enjoy, making them perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or just a personal treat.
The best part? They are endlessly customizable! From simple vanilla cupcakes to rich chocolate ones, from fruity fillings to creative frostings, cupcakes offer unlimited possibilities.
Today, we’ll be making classic vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting—a soft, moist cake with a smooth, creamy topping that melts in your mouth. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
For the buttercream frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons (30-45ml) heavy cream or milk
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add half of the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed.
- Pour in the milk, then add the rest of the dry ingredients.
- Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 6: Fill the Cupcake Liners
- Spoon the batter evenly into the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full to allow room for rising.
Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
How to Make the Perfect Buttercream Frosting
Step 1: Beat the Butter
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Cream
- Pour in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk.
- Beat on high speed for 2 minutes until fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add another tablespoon of cream/milk; if too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
Time to Decorate!
1. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag with a star tip for a professional look.
2. Swirl the frosting onto each cupcake in a circular motion.
3. Add toppings! Try sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit for extra flair.
Are You Ready to Bake?
With this simple guide, baking delicious cupcakes at home is easy and fun! Whether for a celebration or just an afternoon treat, these homemade cupcakes will bring joy with every bite.
Lykkers, what flavors do you love most? Try this recipe and let’s share our baking experiences! Happy baking!
The Perfect Vanilla Cupcake Recipe | Cupcake Jemma
Video by CupcakeJemma