Homemade Vanilla Cupcakes

INGREDIENTS:

Cupcake Batter:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

½ cup whole milk

¼ cup sour cream

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 tablespoons heavy cream

A pinch of salt

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Add the pure vanilla extract and continue to mix until smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream. This ingredient is a secret weapon, ensuring the cupcakes remain moist and tender.

Fill the Cupcake Liners: Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This will allow the cupcakes to rise perfectly without overflowing.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready.

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting …