Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
There’s something undeniably delightful about biting into a fluffy, moist vanilla cupcake. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual get-together, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, these easy vanilla cupcakes are sure to bring a smile to your face. Using a box cake mix as the base makes this recipe incredibly easy and accessible, while the addition of sour cream and real vanilla elevates the flavor to something truly special. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have you baking like a pro in no time!
Reasons to Love Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
- Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of cupcakes in under an hour.
- Versatile: These cupcakes can be dressed up with your favorite frosting or enjoyed plain.
- Deliciously Moist: The addition of sour cream ensures these cupcakes stay moist and tender.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite mix-ins or flavors to make them your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a celebration or a casual treat, these cupcakes fit the bill.
What You’ll Need
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix (white or yellow cake mix can also be used)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- The seeds from one vanilla bean (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup butter, softened (not margarine!)
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract for frosting
- 1 tsp whipping cream (you can also use milk or half and half)
- A pinch of salt
- Seeds from one vanilla bean (optional)
Before You Start: Equipment
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing the batter and a medium bowl for the frosting.
- Electric Mixer: For smooth and creamy frosting and well-mixed batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.
- Cupcake Pan: Standard muffin pan to hold the cupcakes while baking.
- Cupcake Liners: To prevent sticking and for easy serving.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the cupcakes completely before frosting.
Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Pan
Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners to prevent the batter from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, sugar, flour, water, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and softened butter. If using, scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the mixture. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes
Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, whipping cream, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed to combine, then increase to medium speed until the frosting is light and fluffy. If desired, add the seeds from a vanilla bean for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to frost each cupcake generously with the vanilla frosting.
Healthier Substitutions
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in moderation.
- Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Use egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce cholesterol.
Chef’s Rationale
Using a box cake mix as the base for this Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe simplifies the baking process without sacrificing flavor or texture. The addition of sour cream adds moisture, ensuring that each bite is tender and delightful. Incorporating real vanilla extract and the seeds from a vanilla bean brings a depth of flavor that elevates these cupcakes to a gourmet level, making them perfect for any occasion!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
These vanilla cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To freeze, place the cooled cupcakes in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cupcakes to thaw at room temperature. If frosted, it’s best to frost them after thawing for the best texture and flavor.
Popular Questions
Can I use a different flavor cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chocolate cake mix, lemon cake mix, or any other flavor you prefer. Just adjust the frosting to complement the flavor of the cake mix.
How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cupcakes are ready to come out of the oven.
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and frost them just before serving for the best results.
What’s the best way to frost cupcakes?
For a professional look, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip. For a more rustic look, you can use a knife or spatula to spread the frosting on top of the cupcakes. Don’t forget to add sprinkles or other toppings for extra flair!
Serve & Enjoy
These Easy Vanilla Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just because you deserve a treat. Serve them with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage, and watch as everyone enjoys these delightful treats. With their light texture, rich flavor, and fluffy frosting, you’ll find that they disappear quickly!
Making these Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe is a breeze, and the results are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking! Enjoy every last bite of these scrumptious cupcakes, and don’t forget to share with your family and friends. Happy baking!
Easy Vanilla Cupcake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, sugar, flour, water, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and softened butter. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cupcakes in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
- For frosting, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, whipping cream, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy.
- Once the cupcakes are cool, frost each cupcake generously.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze cupcakes for up to three months, thaw at room temperature before serving.
