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, melted; 1 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Cakes & Sweet Treats

I can’t believe how easy it is to whip up these Simple One Bowl Vanilla Cupcakes! In just a few minutes, I transform basic ingredients into soft, fluffy treats that everyone adores. Since I discovered this one-bowl method, I’ve never looked back. It saves time on cleanup and allows me to focus on enjoying the baking process. Whether for a birthday party or a cozy afternoon tea, these cupcakes always deliver delightful vanilla flavor and light texture that keep my friends and family coming back for more.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:45:36.564Z

Baking these cupcakes is always a joyful experience for me. Each time, I experiment with little tweaks, such as adding a splash of vanilla extract or mixing in chocolate chips for variety. This method ensures that everything comes together seamlessly. With just one bowl to clean afterward, I can indulge in deliciousness without the hassle.

I’ve learned that using room-temperature ingredients not only enhances flavor but also contributes to their fluffy texture. It’s a simple tip that takes these cupcakes from good to great. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to make this a regular baking ritual!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Deliciously sweet and aromatic vanilla flavor
Quick and easy cleanup with just one bowl

The Power of One Bowl Baking

This one-bowl method simplifies the baking process significantly, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. By combining all the wet ingredients—melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk—before adding the dry ingredients, you ensure a smoother batter with fewer lumps. This technique also reduces the chance of overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.

One bowl also means less equipment to clean afterward, allowing you to enjoy your freshly baked cupcakes without the extra chore. Additionally, this method saves time and effort, making it easier to bake frequently without the hassle of extensive cleanup.

Ingredient Breakdown

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. For example, the unsalted butter not only adds richness but also contributes to the light, fluffy structure when properly creamed with the sugar. Using room temperature eggs helps to emulsify the mixture, creating a uniform batter that rises beautifully while baking.

The choice of whole milk is also significant; it provides the necessary fat and moisture to keep the cupcakes tender. If you’re dairy-free, unsweetened almond or oat milk can be excellent substitutes without compromising the flavor too much.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cupcakes come out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, mix until just combined to avoid activating the gluten too much. A light hand is key to keeping them airy. Be sure to also measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off—don’t pack it down, as this can lead to too much flour and heavy cupcakes.

Conversely, if your cupcakes overflow, it’s likely that the liners were overfilled. Aim for filling the liners about two-thirds full for the best rise without spilling over. This not only makes for a more uniform bake but also helps maintain the cupcake's appealing shape.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful baking experience.

Cupcake Ingredients

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

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect cupcakes every time.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour, baking powder, and salt, alternating with the milk until just combined.

Fill and Bake

Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cupcakes cool in the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy plain or with your favorite frosting!

Your delicious vanilla cupcakes are ready to be enjoyed! Happy baking!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or a handful of rainbow sprinkles to the batter! Also, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

These vanilla cupcakes are delightful on their own, but they can be even more special with the right toppings. Consider lightening the experience by adding a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries on top for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, a simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting can elevate these cupcakes to party status, especially for birthdays or celebrations.

If you want to offer something different, try filling the cupcakes with jam or a custard before frosting. Hollowing out a small portion from the center and piping in your filling adds a surprise element that can wow your guests. The sweetness of the cupcake balances beautifully with the tartness of fruit fillings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to enjoy these cupcakes on a later date, you can bake them in advance and store them properly. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for about a week. For longer storage, freeze them after cooling—just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. If you’d like, you can frost them after thawing! If you're concerned about freshness, consider making the batter ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before scooping it into the liners and baking as directed.

Flavor Variations

While these cupcakes are fantastic as vanilla, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! Adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the batter can lighten the flavor profile and provide a nice aromatic touch. For a more decadent variation, consider folding mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolate-vanilla combo that’s sure to please anyone’s palate.

Another fun twist is to incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for seasonal variations. Simply add a teaspoon of your chosen spice to the dry ingredients for a delightful warmth that pairs beautifully with the vanilla. Your guests will be impressed with your creativity without much additional effort!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and the cupcakes should turn out great.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes! Just make sure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly and placing them in the freezer. They can last up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

You can incorporate cocoa powder for chocolate cupcakes, use citrus zest for a fresh twist, or mix in nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.