Hosting a small gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet? These small-batch vanilla cupcakes are just what you need!
I created this recipe for a recent family birthday party when I wanted a homemade treat without the excess of a full cake. Sometimes, all you need is just a little something to satisfy your sweet tooth—and these cupcakes do exactly that!
They say good things come in small packages, and in this case, small batches. This recipe makes just 6 cupcakes, the perfect amount for a cozy celebration or a thoughtful treat for a friend or neighbor.
Keep reading to learn how to make these delicious cupcakes and frosting from scratch. Happy baking!
INGREDIENTS
For the Cupcakes
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
For the Frosting
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (plus extra if needed)
INSTRUCTIONS
Making the Cupcakes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 6 cupcake liners and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the egg, vanilla, melted butter, and milk to the dry ingredients. Using a stand or hand mixer, beat on medium speed for about a minute until smooth and lump-free. If mixing by hand, whisk until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Evenly divide the batter between the cupcake liners using a spoon or ice cream scoop.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan before frosting.
Making the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter and vanilla on low speed until well combined.
- Gradually add sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing until the frosting begins to form.
- Add 1 tablespoon of milk and continue mixing on low until smooth. For a thinner consistency, add additional milk 1 teaspoon at a time until the desired texture is reached.
- Cover the frosting and set it aside until the cupcakes are completely cooled.
TIPS & CUSTOMIZATIONS
✔️ Cooling is key – Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
✔️ Use any milk – This recipe works with any milk variety.
✔️ Decorate as you like – Tint the frosting with food coloring gel or add sprinkles for a fun touch.
✔️ Easy piping – A tipless piping bag works great for frosting!
Enjoy these small-batch vanilla cupcakes—a perfect homemade treat in just the right amount!
