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Root Beer Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream frosting on a plate

Vanilla-Root Beer Cupcakes

Delightful cupcakes that merge the nostalgic flavors of root beer into a soft, fluffy cake topped with creamy buttercream frosting.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour This essential base provides the perfect tender and airy texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar The sweet touch that balances the flavors.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Contributes moisture and a rich flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Binding the ingredients together.
  • 0.5 cups whole milk Brings creaminess to the batter.
  • 0.5 cups root beer Infuses an irresistible sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Ensures cupcakes rise perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a warm aroma.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness.

For the Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened The base of your frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar For a sweet, fluffy frosting.
  • 0.25 cups root beer Provides the signature flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a hint of warmth.

For Garnish

  • to taste cherries For a whimsical touch.
  • to taste paper straws For decoration.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and root beer.
  • In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk until just combined.
  • Fill each cupcake liner two-thirds full with batter.

Baking

  • Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.

Frosting and Assembly

  • For the frosting, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by root beer and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  • Frost the cooled cupcakes generously and garnish with cherries and paper straws.

Notes

Allow the batter to rest for enhanced flavors. Use an ice cream scoop for even distribution of batter. Cool completely before frosting.
Keyword Baking, cupcakes, Root Beer Frosting, Sweet Treats, Vanilla-Root Beer Cupcakes