1-First off, kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a cupcake pan with paper liners trust me, it’ll make cleanup a breeze! Next, in a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy; this step is crucial for that amazing texture. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to keep your batter smooth and even. Here, you can check out our best cake recipes for more tips on perfect mixing.

2-Stir in the vanilla extract to bring that signature flavor alive. In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to ensure everything mixes evenly. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry stuff just mix until combined to avoid tough cupcakes. For any dietary swaps, like gluten-free flour or vegan alternatives, toss them in here to customize. Pour the batter into your liners, filling each about two-thirds full, and pop them in the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean, then let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan before moving to a rack. Once cooled, frost them up and enjoy your friends will be hooked!