Are you a novice baker looking to impress your friends and family with a delightful dessert? Look no further! Cupcakes are a great way to start, as they require minimal ingredients and effort, yet yield maximum results. In this article, we will be exploring 20 scrumptious easy cupcake recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic vanilla buttercream to decadent chocolate fudge, there’s something for everyone in this delightful collection.
From simple yet elegant designs to bold and playful flavors, our selection of cupcakes offers a wide range of options to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a show-stopping dessert to impress your guests, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of cupcake magic and explore these mouthwatering recipes together!
Vanilla Buttercream Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are topped with a creamy vanilla buttercream frosting, making them perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with vanilla buttercream.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
Moist chocolate cake filled with a gooey fudge center, topped with creamy chocolate buttercream frosting – these cupcakes are the perfect treat for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– Fudge filling ingredients (see below)
– Chocolate buttercream frosting ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Fudge Filling:
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Melt chocolate and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream until smooth.
Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of lemon, perfect for a springtime dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and flavorful red velvet cupcakes are a staple of American baking, paired perfectly with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (mix softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy cupcakes, filled with fresh strawberries and topped with whipped cream.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced strawberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and additional sliced strawberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Funfetti Cupcakes
These delightful cupcakes are perfect for any occasion that calls for a burst of fun and whimsy. With a moist vanilla cake, a sprinkle of colorful funfetti, and a dollop of creamy buttercream frosting, you’ll be the life of the party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
– Buttercream frosting (recipe not included)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with funfetti sprinkles, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Cupcakes
These rich and decadent cupcakes combine the creamy flavor of peanut butter with the deepness of dark chocolate, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Carrot Cake Cupcakes
Celebrate with these scrumptious carrot cake cupcakes that combine the classic flavors of carrots, walnuts, and spices in a delightful cupcake form. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Coconut Lime Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of coconut with the brightness of lime, perfect for a tropical treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, eggs, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana Nut Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of chopped nuts, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or your preferred nut)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Fold in mashed banana, softened butter, and vanilla extract until just combined.
4. Stir in chopped nuts.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
These moist vanilla cupcakes are filled with a surprise – crushed Oreos mixed into the batter, and topped with a creamy buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons crushed Oreos
– 1 cup whole milk
– Vanilla extract (optional)
– Buttercream frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Fold in crushed Oreos.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Buttercream Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Vanilla extract (optional)
Beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract (if using), beating until combined. Spread or pipe onto cooled cupcakes.
Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, perfect for a cozy fall gathering or as a sweet surprise for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes
These refreshing cupcakes combine the coolness of mint with the richness of chocolate chips, perfect for a sweet treat on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and peppermint extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry White Chocolate Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of raspberries, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and milk until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Fold melted white chocolate into the wet ingredients until combined. Stir in raspberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
S’mores Cupcakes
These cupcakes combine the gooey goodness of s’mores with the convenience of a handheld treat. Perfect for camping trips, backyard gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Marshmallow creme (for filling)
– Chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with marshmallow creme, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely.
7. Fill cooled cupcakes with marshmallow creme and top with chocolate chips or shavings.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tiramisu Cupcakes
Elevate your dessert game with these Tiramisu-inspired cupcakes, featuring the signature flavors of espresso, mascarpone, and ladyfingers in a delightful bite-sized package.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with mascarpone cheese, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Joy Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the sweet and creamy essence of Almond Joy bars, topped with a toasted coconut and chopped almonds. Perfect for a tropical getaway in every bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Toasted coconut flakes and chopped almonds for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, almond extract, and coconut milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Top with toasted coconut flakes and chopped almonds.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Bacon Cupcakes
Maple Bacon Cupcakes: Sweet and Savory Delight
These cupcakes combine the richness of maple syrup with the smokiness of bacon, creating a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a brunch or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, maple syrup, and crumbled bacon.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Oreo-Stuffed Cupcakes
Transform your favorite cupcake recipe into a show-stopper by adding an Oreo surprise inside! These moist and delicious treats are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 Oreo cookies, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among liners. Top each cupcake with 1-2 crushed Oreos.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the world of delicious and easy cupcake recipes perfect for beginners! This collection of 20 mouthwatering treats includes classic flavors like vanilla buttercream and chocolate fudge, as well as unique combinations such as lemon blueberry and peanut butter chocolate. From fruity options like strawberry shortcake and raspberry white chocolate to decadent choices like tiramisu and maple bacon, there’s something for every sweet tooth. With simple recipes and adorable designs, these cupcakes are sure to impress friends and family alike. Get baking and indulge in the sweetness!