Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes are a classic treat that perfectly embodies the joy and celebration of birthdays. With their light and fluffy texture, these cupcakes are not only a visual delight but also melt in your mouth with every bite. The rich vanilla flavor paired with a creamy buttercream frosting makes them a favorite for both children and adults alike. Whether it’s a birthday party, a special occasion, or simply a desire for something sweet, these cupcakes are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Why Make This Recipe

What makes Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes so special is their simplicity combined with a rich flavor. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with different decorations or fillings to suit any occasion. The use of real vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste enhances the flavor, making them far superior to store-bought versions. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the joy of baking from scratch, knowing that you’re creating a delightful treat for loved ones.

How to Make Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes

Making Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes is straightforward and rewarding. Follow this step-by-step guide to create these delicious bites of joy.

Ingredients:

200 g all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
70 g butter (room temperature)
210 g granulated sugar
3 large eggs (room temperature)
150 g full-fat sour cream (room temperature)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
200 g butter (cool room temperature)
330 g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla paste
1 tbsp whole milk (room temperature)

Directions:

VANILLA CUPCAKES:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend in the sour cream, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
VANILLA BUTTERCREAM:
- In a mixing bowl, whip the cool room temperature butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Add the vanilla paste and milk, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
- Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar or milk if necessary.

How to Serve Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes

Serve your Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes on a decorative platter for a festive touch. You can add sprinkles, fruit, or edible glitter on top of the buttercream for extra flair. Consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for an enjoyable treat.

How to Store Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes

To keep the cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life further, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months; thaw them before adding buttercream.

Tips to Make Vanilla Birthday Cupcakes

Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and dairy, are at room temperature to help with proper mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and airy.
Experiment with different extracts or flavorings, like almond or lemon, for a unique twist.
You can use a piping bag to frost the cupcakes more elegantly.

Variation

Try adding different fillings, such as jam or chocolate ganache, in the center of the cupcakes for a surprise flavor. You can also experiment with flavored buttercreams, such as chocolate or strawberry, to pair with the vanilla cupcake base.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Keep them stored in an airtight container until you’re ready to frost and serve.

Q2: Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, plain yogurt can be a good substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

Q3: How can I achieve a taller cupcake?
Make sure to fill the cupcake liners just over halfway and consider using a little extra batter. Also, check your oven temperature for accuracy, as baking at too low a temperature can lead to flatter cupcakes.