Who doesn’t love a perfectly baked cupcake? They are not only delicious but also customizable with endless flavor and decoration options.
Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, cupcakes are the way to go! In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step to make light, fluffy cupcakes that are sure to impress.
What You’ll Need
Before we begin, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s a simple list to get you started:
Ingredients (Makes about 12 cupcakes):
- 1 cup (240g) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) of whole milk
- Optional: Chocolate chips, fruit zest, or any add-ins for extra flavor
Tools:
- Cupcake baking pan
- Paper cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
The first step in our cupcake journey is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to cook the cupcakes evenly. Next, line your cupcake pan with paper cupcake liners. This will help the cupcakes come out easily once they’re baked, and also make clean-up much simpler.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the two ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The air incorporated into the butter and sugar will help your cupcakes become soft and airy.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, it’s time to add the eggs. Add one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition. Beat the mixture until smooth, and then add the vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a rich, warm flavor that complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients are key to giving your cupcakes structure. Once well mixed, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start by adding a third of the dry ingredients, followed by half the milk, and continue alternating until everything is combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter, as this can make the cupcakes dense.
Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners. Fill each liner about 2/3 full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise as they bake, resulting in a nice, rounded top. If you like, you can sprinkle a few chocolate chips or add fruit zest to the top of the batter for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Place your cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them – the exact baking time may vary depending on your oven. To check if the cupcakes are done, insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, they are ready!
Step 7: Let Them Cool
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s important to let them cool before frosting, as warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Now comes the fun part – frosting! You can use your favorite frosting recipe, such as classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or chocolate ganache. Use a piping bag to pipe the frosting onto each cupcake, or simply spread it with a spatula for a more rustic look. Feel free to get creative with toppings like sprinkles, edible flowers, or mini candies.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it – the ultimate guide to baking delicious cupcakes! With simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, you'll create sweet, soft treats that everyone will love. Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from celebrations to cozy moments at home.
So, let’s get started – gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the baking process. Get ready to bake some magic, Lykkers! Happy baking!
How to Get PERFECT VANILLA CUPCAKES Every Time
Video by Natashas Kitchen
