Super Simple Vanilla Cupcakes

A classic treat enjoyed by both children and adults alike. Whether it's for a birthday party, wedding, a special occasion, or just because, these cupcakes are sure to please everyone and provide a perfect base to decorate with buttercream, fondant, cake toppers, and more.  

What makes the classic vanilla cupcake so special? It's light, fluffy, and has a delightful hint of sweetness. It's the perfect combination of flavours, sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make! 

With this recipe, you'll be able to make 12 vanilla cupcakes that are both delicious and easy to make in just 25 minutes. All you need are a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time. The result is a classic cupcake that is both moist and flavourful. 

Ingredients

110g butter 
110g golden caster sugar 
2 large eggs 
½ tsp vanilla extract 
110g self-raising flour 

For the buttercream icing 

150g butter 
300g icing sugar 
1 tsp vanilla extract 
3 tbsp milk 
Food colouring paste of your choice (optional) 

Method 

STEP 1 

Heat oven to 180C/160C fan (and fill a 12 cupcake tray with cases.) 

STEP 2

Using an electric whisk beat 110g softened butter and 110g golden caster sugar together until light and fluffy then whisk in 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure you scrape down the sides of the bowl after each one. 

STEP 3

Add ½ tsp vanilla extract, 110g self-raising flour, and a pinch of salt, and whisk until just combined then spoon or pipe the mixture evenly into the cupcake cases. 

STEP 4

Bake for 15 mins until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the middle of each cake comes out clean. Leave to cool completely on a wire rack. 

Buttercream Icing 

Buttercream icing is an easy and quick way to complete your cupcakes but this doesn’t need to be boring! Add food colouring, sprinkles, sugar decorations, or cupcake rings to make each cake extra special. 

STEP 1 

To make the buttercream, whisk 150g softened butter until super soft then add 300g icing sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. 

STEP 2

Whisk together until smooth (start off slowly to avoid an icing sugar cloud) then beat in 3 tbsp milk. 

STEP 3

If you want to colour the icing stir in the food colouring now. Spoon or pipe onto the cooled cupcakes and add any decorations, toppers, or candles.