How to Get PERFECT VANILLA CUPCAKES Every Time
How to Make Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes
Introduction to the Recipe
- Natasha introduces herself and the recipe for perfect vanilla cupcakes, emphasizing their superior texture compared to store-bought options. She hints at a delicious frosting that accompanies the cupcakes.
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
- Begin by combining 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk together and set aside.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
- In a separate large bowl (or stand mixer), cream together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about five minutes until thick and fluffy.
- Add two large room temperature eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next. Scrape down the bowl as needed for smoothness.
Incorporating Flour and Buttermilk
- Gradually add flour in thirds while alternating with 1/2 cup room temperature buttermilk. Mix well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to prevent hardening of butter; preheat oven to 350°F with rack in center.
Baking the Cupcakes
- The batter will be thick; portion it into lined muffin tins using an ice cream scoop, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake at 350°F for approximately 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Making the Frosting
- After cooling cupcakes for five minutes in the pan, transfer them to a wire rack. To make frosting, beat together 1 1/2 cups cold heavy whipping cream until fluffy.
- In another bowl, mix one package (8 oz.) softened cream cheese with two cups powdered sugar starting on low speed then increasing to medium-high for about two minutes until creamy.
Finalizing Frosting and Decorating Cupcakes
- Blend in one teaspoon of vanilla extract; gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until combined. Transfer frosting into a pastry bag fitted with piping tip.
Enjoying Your Cupcakes
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting; they can be made ahead of time and stored assembled or separately. Sprinkles are added for decoration during taste testing.
Taste Test Experience
- Natasha humorously prepares for her taste test while highlighting how appealing sprinkles make these cupcakes look. She describes their texture as airy and soft upon tasting them.
Conclusion on Texture and Eating Tips
- The final product is praised for its perfect color and easy-to-eat nature when removing wrappers. Natasha shares her husband's unique method of eating cupcakes by creating a "cupcake sandwich" which she finds amusing yet practical.