Easy Cupcake Recipe: Deliciously Simple Treats for Everyone
Baking cupcakes can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! This easy cupcake recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. It's quick, simple, and delivers deliciously moist and fluffy cupcakes every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful treats!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session. You likely already have most of these in your pantry!
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your cupcakes.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: The key ingredient for fluffy cupcakes!
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise evenly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture. Make sure it's softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 cup (240ml) milk: Adds moisture and helps create a light texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked cupcakes:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
2. Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, leading to lighter cupcakes.
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
5. Combine Wet & Dry:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; don't overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes.
6. Fill the Liners:
Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full.
7. Bake:
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool & Decorate:
Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, unleash your creativity and decorate them with frosting, sprinkles, or your favorite toppings!
Tips for Perfect Cupcakes:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for optimal mixing and baking.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready.
- Let them cool completely: Frosting warm cupcakes will cause the frosting to melt.
Variations:
This recipe is a fantastic base for endless variations! Experiment with different extracts (almond, lemon), add chocolate chips, or try different frostings to create your own signature cupcake.
This easy cupcake recipe is your gateway to delicious homemade treats. Enjoy the baking process and the delicious results! Happy baking!
