Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes recipe

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a muffin tin with **paper cupcake liners** and set it aside. This recipe will make about **12 cupcakes**.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the **all-purpose flour**, **baking powder**, and **salt**. Set this dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

#### Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the **unsalted butter** and **granulated sugar** together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about **3-4 minutes**. This process helps to incorporate air into the batter, which is key to achieving that light, fluffy texture.

#### Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the **eggs** one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Stir in the **vanilla extract**, mixing until smooth.

#### Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients and Milk
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the **whole milk** to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Start by adding a third of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, then mix in half of the milk. Continue alternating until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; gently fold until just combined for the fluffiest texture.

#### Step 6: Add Sour Cream
Add the **sour cream** and gently fold it into the batter. This will add moisture and tenderness to your cupcakes, helping to achieve that perfect light and soft texture.

#### Step 7: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about **two-thirds** full. This will allow the cupcakes to rise properly without overflowing.

#### Step 8: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for **18-22 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cupcakes should be golden on top and spring back lightly when touched.

#### Step 9: Cool
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

#### Step 10: Make the Frosting (Optional)
While the cupcakes are cooling, you can prepare the frosting. Beat the **unsalted butter** with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the **powdered sugar**, 1 cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Add **1-2 tbsp of milk or cream** to reach your desired frosting consistency. Stir in the **vanilla extract** and a pinch of **salt** for balance. Beat the frosting on high for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to spread the frosting generously on top of each cupcake. Feel free to add some sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh fruit for a fun and festive touch!

### Why You’ll Love Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes:

– **Light and airy texture**: The secret to a fluffy cupcake lies in the creaming of the butter and sugar, the right balance of ingredients, and careful mixing. These cupcakes come out soft, moist, and light with a subtle vanilla flavor.
– **Perfectly sweet**: Not too sweet, not too plain, these vanilla cupcakes strike the right balance with just the right amount of sugar, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
– **Versatile**: You can dress these cupcakes up or down, depending on the occasion. From simple frosting and sprinkles to more elaborate decorations, they are a blank canvas for creativity.
– **Great for any occasion**: Whether it’s a birthday, a baby shower, or a casual get-together, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit.
– **Make ahead and freeze**: These cupcakes freeze wonderfully! You can bake and frost them ahead of time, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Simply defrost them at room temperature and enjoy!

### Tips for Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes:

– **Room temperature ingredients**: For the fluffiest cupcakes, make sure your **butter, eggs, and milk** are all at room temperature. This helps them mix more evenly and results in a smoother batter.
– **Don’t overmix**: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of the light and fluffy ones you’re aiming for.
– **Measure your flour correctly**: Too much flour can make your cupcakes dry. Be sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag.
– **Customize the flavor**: While vanilla is classic, you can easily add a twist by incorporating lemon zest, almond extract, or even a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

### The Perfect Cupcake Every Time

There’s nothing better than a fresh, fluffy **vanilla cupcake**. This recipe ensures light, soft, and moist cupcakes that are perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make these cupcakes from scratch with ease and enjoy a sweet treat that’s both comforting and delightful.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these **Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes** are sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection. Pair them with your favorite frosting, and you’ve got a perfect dessert for every celebration. Enjoy!