Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes

Name: Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence

I love whipping up a batch of Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes whenever I need a quick treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; everything comes together in just one bowl, which makes cleanup a breeze. Not only are these cupcakes fluffy and light, but they also have a rich vanilla flavor that shines through. Whether it’s for a birthday, a casual gathering, or just because, these cupcakes are a delightful way to satisfy a sweet craving without much fuss.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:37:36.677Z

I’ll never forget the first time I baked these Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes. I was surprised at how quickly they came together and how much flavor a few basic ingredients could pack. The method—mixing everything in one bowl—helps maintain the moisture and tenderness of the cupcakes, making them exceptionally delicious.

Over the years, I've experimented with different frostings to top these cupcakes, and I’ve found that a simple vanilla buttercream perfectly complements the flavor. If you want to elevate them, adding sprinkles or even a hint of lemon zest can offer a delightful twist to this classic treat.

Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
Deliciously moist and fluffy texture
Easy cleanup with just one bowl required
Versatile for any occasion or topping

Ingredient Insights

The success of these Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes hinges on the balance of ingredients, particularly the rising agents and fat content. Baking powder is essential for achieving that fluffy texture, as it releases gases that help the cupcakes rise. It’s important to check the expiration date on your baking powder to ensure it is active; fresh baking powder can make a significant difference in the puffiness of your cupcakes.

Using unsalted butter allows for better control of the overall flavor, as you can adjust the salt to your liking. Softening the butter is crucial; it should be perfectly soft but not melted, which helps create a creamy texture when mixed with sugar. If you find yourself short on butter, you can substitute with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil, but this may alter the flavor slightly.

Baking and Cooling Tips

When filling your cupcake liners, only fill them to about two-thirds full. This allows space for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing. Keep an eye on them while baking, as ovens can vary; check for that golden edge and a toothpick test about a minute before the timer goes off. If the toothpick comes out slightly crumbly rather than wet, your cupcakes are perfectly done.

Once out of the oven, letting the cupcakes cool in the pan for just around five minutes helps them set before transferring them to a wire rack. This step prevents them from sticking to the liners. For a quicker cooling process, you can place them in the fridge after they’ve cooled slightly, but be cautious of condensation, which can affect frosting adherence.

Ingredients

Cupcake Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Mixing Bowl

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended and smooth.

Fill and Bake

Using a scoop or spoon, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, frost with your favorite frosting.

Pro Tips

For a more intense vanilla flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste instead of extract. Additionally, make sure to measure your flour accurately
too much can lead to dense cupcakes.

Frosting Options

These cupcakes provide a blank canvas for a variety of frostings. Classic buttercream is always a favorite, but you can also try cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. If you're looking for something lighter, whipped cream or even a simple glaze will complement the vanilla flavor beautifully. Remember to taste your frosting as you go; adjusting sweetness levels can help you achieve the perfect balance.

For a fun variation, consider adding a bit of cocoa powder to half of your frosting to create a marble effect. This provides a delightful surprise when biting into the cupcakes and offers a pleasing contrast in flavors. Just be mindful to adjust the sugar content in the chocolate frosting accordingly, as cocoa powder can lend a bitter note if not countered.

Storage and Make-Ahead

These cupcakes are great for make-ahead baking! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. Just give the batter a gentle stir before filling your liners, as the rising agents will still be active. Once baked, the cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week if frosted.

To freeze, allow the cupcakes to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, which will keep them fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. For the best texture, frost them after thawing, as frosting can sometimes become soggy during the freezing process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure it's a 1:1 ratio for best results.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 3-4 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are completely cooled and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

→ What are some frosting ideas for these cupcakes?

Classic vanilla buttercream, chocolate frosting, or even a cream cheese frosting work great. You can also get creative with flavored frostings like strawberry or lemon.