Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: The Baking Corner

I absolutely love baking these Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes whenever I need a quick and delightful treat. The best part? Everything comes together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is perfect for beginners, and the outcome is always a fluffy and tender cupcake with a beautiful vanilla flavor. Whether I'm making them for a birthday party or just for my family, these cupcakes never fail to bring smiles and satisfaction. Join me in creating this simple yet delicious dessert that everyone will adore!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:21:36.445Z

Baking has always been a therapeutic experience for me, and these Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes are my go-to recipe. I appreciate how versatile they can be; you can easily add sprinkles or change the frosting to suit any occasion. Using one bowl minimizes the hassle, and I love how the simplicity of each ingredient highlights the rich vanilla flavor. I also discovered that letting the batter rest for just a few minutes improves the cupcake's texture, giving it that perfect softness.

Each time I make these cupcakes, the aromatic scent fills my kitchen, making it feel warm and inviting. It's a simple recipe, but it delivers such satisfying results. I remember the time my little nephew helped me decorate them with colorful icing and sprinkles, and we had a blast! These moments remind me why I enjoy baking — it’s not just about the end result but also the joy it brings to those around me.

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Effortless preparation with just one bowl required
Light and fluffy texture that's incredibly enjoyable
Versatile recipe for any occasion with customizable toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The success of these Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes heavily relies on the quality and correct measurement of your ingredients. Using fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes. Opt for unsalted butter to maintain control over the salt content, which is crucial since baking is a science. Accurate measurements play a vital role; too much flour can lead to dense cupcakes, while too little can cause them to collapse.

All-purpose flour is the backbone of these cupcakes, providing the necessary structure. However, if you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour. This will result in an even softer and fluffier texture, although traditional all-purpose works wonderfully. For a dairy-free variation, almond or oat milk can replace regular milk without compromising taste.

Baking Tips for Perfection

To ensure even baking, always preheat your oven, as this is crucial for achieving that beautiful rise. Use an oven thermometer to check the accuracy of your oven’s temperature, as baking at too high or low a heat can affect the cupcakes' texture. When they're ready, the tops should appear lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Pay attention to the time while mixing the batter. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in tougher cupcakes. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined to keep your cupcakes light and fluffy. Also, letting the batter sit too long before baking can deflate the air bubbles formed; aim to bake as soon as you've filled your cupcake liners for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delightful cupcakes:

Cupcake Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting the preparation.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cupcakes:

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Beat until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract, followed by the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.

Fill the Cupcake Liners

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Evenly distribute the batter among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting them with your favorite icing.

Enjoy your freshly baked cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider substituting half of the milk with sour cream or yogurt. This will keep your cupcakes extra moist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cupcakes can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months, making them a handy treat for unexpected guests.

If you're planning to frost them later, store the frosting separately in the refrigerator. Before frosting, allow both the cupcakes and frosting to come to room temperature. This ensures better adherence and enhances flavor as well. When ready to serve, pipe or spread your favorite icing onto the cooled cupcakes for a delightful finishing touch.

Flavor Variations

While these cupcakes shine with a classic vanilla flavor, there's plenty of room for creativity. For a chocolate twist, substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. Add chocolate chips for an extra indulgence. Alternatively, for citrus fans, incorporate the zest of a lemon or orange into the batter for a bright flavor kick that pairs beautifully with vanilla frosting.

You can also customize these cupcakes with toppings such as fruit, nuts, or sprinkles to suit any occasion. During holiday seasons, consider adding festive colors to the frosting or integrating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a seasonal touch. These small adjustments can transform the basic recipe into something uniquely yours, catering to various tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter for oil?

Yes, you can substitute melted oil for the butter, but the flavor will be slightly different.

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked and cooled cupcakes for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I use for toppings?

You can use any frosting of your choice, whipped cream, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar for decoration.