Basic Vanilla Cupcakes with Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

by Simi
(Abbotsford)

Basic Vanilla Cupcakes with Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

Vanilla cupcakes with chocolate frosting

These classic vanilla cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and easy for beginning bakers to make. Top them with rich chocolate buttercream frosting or decorate them with your favorite sprinkles and candies for birthdays, parties, and special occasions.

Cupcake Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs

Cupcake Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line muffin pans with paper cupcake liners.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add the shortening, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Add the eggs and beat on medium speed for another minute. Scrape the bowl again and beat on high speed for about 1 1/2 minutes until the batter is smooth and fluffy.

Fill cupcake liners about 1/2 to 2/3 full.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks and cool completely before frosting.

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

5 ounces (150g) butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 teaspoons hot water

Frosting Directions

Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.

Mix the cocoa powder and hot water together in a small bowl. Add to the butter mixture.

Beat until smooth, creamy, and spreadable.

Frost cooled cupcakes and decorate as desired.

Yield: About 12 cupcakes.