Vanilla Cupcake Recipe With Chocolate Frosting Made Easy

There’s something truly magical about the perfect vanilla cupcake paired with rich, indulgent chocolate frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, this classic combination never fails to delight.

The soft, moist vanilla cupcake base provides a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the deep, velvety chocolate frosting on top. Baking these cupcakes from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through each step to create flawless vanilla cupcakes with a luscious chocolate frosting that melts in your mouth. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers will feel confident making these delicious treats.

So, grab your apron and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh-baked cupcakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vanilla cupcake recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the cupcakes are incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the perfect blend of butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.

The light vanilla flavor makes them versatile enough to enjoy on their own or dress up with various frostings and toppings.

The chocolate frosting is rich and creamy, providing a decadent contrast to the delicate cupcake. Made with real cocoa powder and smooth butter, it’s easy to spread yet holds its shape beautifully for decorating.

Plus, this recipe uses common pantry staples, so you can whip up a batch anytime without special trips to the store.

Finally, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion—from casual family desserts to elegant parties. They’re also great for kids to help bake, making this recipe a fun, interactive baking project.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• For the chocolate frosting:
• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula
• 12-cup cupcake pan
• Paper cupcake liners
• Cooling rack
• Piping bag and tip (optional, for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Combine wet and dry: With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — do not overmix.
6. Fill cupcake liners: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
9. Prepare chocolate frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
10. Frost cupcakes: Once cupcakes are completely cool, use a spatula or piping bag to generously frost each cupcake with the chocolate frosting.
11. Serve and enjoy! These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

“For extra moist cupcakes, substitute half of the butter with vegetable oil.”

To make your cupcakes even more special, consider adding a few chocolate chips or sprinkles to the batter before baking. You can also infuse the vanilla batter with a bit of lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist.

If you want to experiment with frosting, try mixing in a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate frosting for a mocha flavor. Alternatively, swap the chocolate frosting for a classic cream cheese frosting for a lighter topping.

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk substitutes. The frosting can be made creamy by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vanilla cupcakes with chocolate frosting are a perfect standalone treat, but you can also serve them with:

• A scoop of your favorite vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a burst of freshness.
• A drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce on top for a gourmet touch.
• Alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the flavors.

For party platters, arrange the cupcakes with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to make them visually appealing and festive.

Conclusion

Baking vanilla cupcakes with chocolate frosting is a delightful and rewarding experience that yields delicious results every time. The balance of flavors and textures makes this recipe a timeless favorite for bakers of all levels.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cupcakes will bring smiles and compliments to your table.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy homemade cupcakes that taste just as good as those from your favorite bakery. Don’t forget to experiment with different frosting styles and toppings to make this recipe your own.

Happy baking!

For more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, explore wholesome meals in Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, or refresh your salad game with our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

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