Simple Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream
These vanilla cupcakes are light, fluffy, and topped with a classic buttercream frosting. This small-batch recipe is ideal when you want a sweet treat without the commitment of a full batch.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon milk
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with 6 cupcake liners.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the buttercream, beat together the powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Frost the cooled cupcakes as desired.