Vanilla Cupcakes & DIY Cupcake Stand

Hello, dear sweet lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delicious vanilla cupcake recipe, along with a guide on how to create your own display stand for them. I will turn every moment spent in the kitchen into a true pleasure! This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Get ready to be delighted!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes

A brief story about cupcakes

Cupcakes, those little sweet gems, became popular in the 19th century and are often associated with joy and celebration. These individual cakes can be decorated in countless ways, and the flavor combinations are limitless. Today, we will focus on the classic vanilla cupcake recipe, but I’ll also provide suggestions for variations.

Ingredients

For the cupcakes:
- 120g butter, at room temperature
- 100g powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 50ml oil (sunflower or canola, for a neutral taste)
- 250g flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Red food coloring (optional, for a surprise effect!)

For the vanilla frosting:
- 100g butter, at room temperature
- 150g powdered sugar
- 200g white chocolate
- 50ml heavy cream
- Vanilla extract (to taste)

Step by step for the best vanilla cupcakes

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.

2. Prepare the tray: Place cupcake liners in the cupcake tray. This step not only helps with serving but also makes cleanup easier!

3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth cream. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved; this will help achieve a delicate texture.

4. Add the eggs: Incorporate the two eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The eggs will help aerate the batter and contribute to a light structure.

5. Incorporate the oil: Add the oil and mix until everything is well combined.

6. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder. This will ensure a uniform batter.

7. Combine everything: Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently. If you want to surprise everyone, add a few drops of red food coloring for a playful interior.

8. Fill the liners: Using a spoon or spatula, fill each cupcake liner with a tablespoon of batter. Leave a little space at the top to allow the cakes to rise.

9. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

10. Cool: After baking, let the cupcakes cool in the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.

Making the vanilla frosting

1. Melt the chocolate: In a small bowl, melt the white chocolate with the heavy cream using a double boiler or microwave, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

2. Beat the butter: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar until fluffy and light in color. It’s essential for this to be well aerated for the perfect texture.

3. Combine the chocolate and frosting: Once the chocolate has cooled slightly, gradually add it to the buttercream, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract to taste.

Decorating the cupcakes

Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, use a piping bag to decorate each cupcake with the vanilla frosting. You can choose to create simple designs or elaborate shapes, depending on your preferences. After decorating, let them chill in the fridge for a few hours to set the frosting.

The cupcake stand

Don’t forget to check out my guide for building a DIY cupcake stand! This will not only make the treats look spectacular but will also add a touch of originality to any event.

Serving suggestions

These vanilla cupcakes are delicious served alongside a cup of fragrant tea or a cup of coffee. They can also be paired with vanilla ice cream for an even more decadent dessert!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can try whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary. Make sure to adjust the liquid amounts if necessary.

2. How can I customize the recipe? Add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts to the batter for an extra boost of texture and flavor.

3. What if I don’t have white chocolate? You can use dark or milk chocolate, but the taste will be different.

4. What is the nutritional value of one serving? Each cupcake contains approximately 220-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They are a source of carbohydrates and fats, but also sweetness that will lift your spirits!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed exploring this vanilla cupcake recipe and creating a custom stand for them. These treats are not only delicious but also a joy to make. Whether for a party or just to indulge yourself, I’m sure you’ll love every bite! Start experimenting, and remember, the joy of cooking is just as important as the final result. Happy baking!