White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you have a hankering for something irresistibly tender and delectably sweet, this White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe will quickly become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine biting into a soft, moist cupcake bursting with the gentle warmth of almond and vanilla flavors, topped with a heavenly, smooth cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances richness and lightness. Whether you’re planning a special celebration or just craving a little slice of Southern-inspired magic, these cupcakes deliver that tender crumb and luscious finish that everyone can’t stop talking about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on these cupcakes is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in the final bite. From the rich all-purpose flour creating the perfect structure to the fragrant almond and vanilla extracts adding that signature Southern charm, every component brings its own magic to the cupcake party.

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft and fluffy base for the cupcakes’ tender crumb.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cupcakes rise beautifully and remain light.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet flavors.
  • â…“ cup butter, room temperature: Adds richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes while helping with their tender crumb.
  • â…“ cup sour cream (do not use low fat): Keeps the cupcakes extra moist and lends a subtle tang.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract: Infuses the cupcakes with their signature fragrant almond note.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla butternut flavoring or clear vanilla extract: Complements the almond with a smooth, warm vanilla aroma.
  • 3 egg whites, room temperature: Lightens the batter and contributes to the cupcakes’ delicate structure.
  • ½ cup milk: Adds moisture and helps blend all ingredients into a harmonious batter.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature: Forms the creamy base of the frosting with a tangy richness.
  • 1 pint heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection, balancing cream cheese with lightness.
  • 1 ¼ cups confectioner’s sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting while keeping it smooth.
  • 1 tablespoon instant pudding powder, white chocolate or vanilla: Helps stabilize the frosting and adds subtle flavor depth.
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract: Ties the frosting flavor to the cupcakes, creating a harmonious almond vanilla experience.

How to Make White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners—this ensures easy cleanup and perfectly shaped cupcakes. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination provides your cupcakes with the structure and lift that they need to be airy, yet sturdy enough to hold the dreamy frosting.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 4 minutes. This step is key to incorporating air into your batter, making the cupcakes irresistibly soft. Don’t rush it—this is where the magic of texture begins!

Step 3: Add Flavor and Sour Cream

Next, blend in the sour cream, almond extract, and vanilla butternut flavoring. The sour cream adds a subtle tang and extra moisture, while the almond and vanilla extracts start layering in those unmistakable flavors that define this recipe.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg Whites

Beat in the egg whites on medium speed, scraping the bowl down often. Egg whites lighten the batter and lift the cupcake’s crumb to a delicate, tender texture, ensuring that each bite feels like a cloud.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Now, add the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the milk. Beat gently on low speed for about a minute after each addition, scraping down the bowl to make sure everything is evenly mixed. Remember, gentle mixing preserves the air bubbles that keep the cupcakes fluffy.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Carefully spoon the batter into prepared liners, filling about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. Bake for around 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean but may still have a few crumbs attached. Overbaking will dry them out, so keep a close eye!

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital—frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt and slide off, and nobody wants that mess.

Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat together the cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar until fluffy and smooth. Slowly add the heavy cream, pudding powder, and almond extract, and beat on high until the frosting thickens and stiff peaks form. This luscious frosting is light enough to complement the cupcake, but rich enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Step 9: Frost and Enjoy

Using a spatula or piping bag, generously frost the cooled cupcakes. The combination of almond vanilla cupcakes with cream cheese frosting is pure bliss—every bite melts in your mouth and keeps you reaching for just one more.

How to Serve White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of slivered almonds, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a small edible flower can add a delightful touch of elegance. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also echo the almond flavor, making every cupcake a bite-sized work of art.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes pair wonderfully with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, which add a tart contrast to the sweet, creamy frosting. A light cup of hot tea or a cool glass of milk also complements the flavors beautifully, making the experience even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these cupcakes on delicate cupcake stands or vintage china to celebrate special occasions. For a fun twist, decorate with pastel-colored sprinkles or use edible glitter to create a festive sparkle. Personalizing the cupcakes with custom toppers or messages turns them into memorable gifts or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, especially when frosted with cream cheese frosting. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to two days, making them easy to enjoy even after your initial baking binge.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months. Simply layer them in a freezer-safe container with waxed paper between each layer to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw completely before frosting for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy previously baked cupcakes as if freshly made, allow them to come to room temperature. If desired, warm slightly in a microwave for about 10 seconds to revive softness, but take care not to overheat, which can alter texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

While whole eggs add richness, this recipe specifically uses egg whites to keep the cupcakes light and airy. Using whole eggs might make the texture denser than intended.

Is it okay to use a different extract instead of almond?

Absolutely! While almond extract is signature here, you can substitute with other flavors like amaretto or even just vanilla for a more classic taste.

Can I make the cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, but you’ll need a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Keep in mind that texture and rise might slightly change, so experimenting may be necessary.

Why is sour cream important in this recipe?

Sour cream provides moisture and adds a subtle tang that balances sweetness while keeping the cupcakes incredibly tender.

How long can I keep the frosted cupcakes at room temperature?

Because the frosting contains cream cheese and fresh cream, it’s best to refrigerate the cupcakes and consume them within 1-2 days for safety and freshness.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that makes baking feel like a little celebration in itself. These cupcakes bring together simplicity, elegance, and flavors that comfort and delight with every bite. If you’re looking to wow your friends, celebrate a special moment, or simply treat yourself to a decadent yet tender dessert, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Trust me, once you bake and taste these, they’ll hold a sweet spot in your heart forever.

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White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

White Cupcakes with Almond Vanilla Flavoring and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 30 reviews
  • Author: Elina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
  • Category: Dessert – Cupcakes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American – Southern

Description

These dreamy white cupcakes are soft, moist, and delicately flavored with almond and vanilla, reminiscent of a slice of Southern wedding cake but in a handheld form with less commitment. They pair wonderfully with any frosting, especially the whipped cream cheese icing which adds a rich, creamy finish perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

White Cupcakes

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • â…“ cup butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
  • â…“ cup sour cream (do not use low fat)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla – butternut flavoring or clear vanilla extract
  • 3 egg whites, room temperature
  • ½ cup milk

Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (do not use low fat or fat free)
  • 1 pint heavy whipping cream
  • 1 ¼ cups confectioner’s sugar
  • 1 tablespoon instant pudding powder, white chocolate or vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line muffin cups with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal and even baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to incorporate later.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 4 minutes. This step helps create a tender, airy cupcake texture.
  4. Add Flavorings: Mix in the sour cream, almond extract, and vanilla-butternut flavoring to the creamed mixture until fully combined, enriching the batter with delicate flavor notes.
  5. Incorporate Egg Whites: Add the egg whites and beat on medium speed thoroughly, scraping down the bowl often to ensure everything is mixed well and to build structure.
  6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the flour mixture to the egg white mixture in three batches, alternating with the milk. Beat on low speed for about a minute, making sure to scrape the sides to fully incorporate all ingredients without overmixing.
  7. Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
  8. Bake Cupcakes: Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
  9. Cool Completely: Remove cupcakes from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before frosting to prevent melting of the icing.
  10. Make Frosting: Beat the cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar together until fluffy. Add the heavy cream, instant pudding powder, and almond extract, and beat until the frosting thickens and stiff peaks form, creating a light, creamy topping.
  11. Frost Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are fully cooled, frost generously with the whipped cream cheese frosting and serve.

Notes

  • Storage: Cupcakes are best eaten or frozen the day they are made. For frosted cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
  • Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to three months, placing them in layers separated by waxed paper to prevent sticking. Do not frost before freezing.
  • Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning to achieve the best texture and rise.
  • Creaming Technique: Cream butter and sugar well (3 to 4 minutes) to incorporate air, which is crucial for fluffy cupcakes.
  • Gentle Mixing: Mix batter gently and avoid overmixing to maintain air bubbles that keep cupcakes light and tender.
  • Baking Tip: Avoid overbaking; a toothpick inserted should come out clean with a few crumbs, indicating perfect doneness.
  • Portion Control: Use a scoop to fill liners evenly, approximately a scant ¼ cup of batter per cupcake for uniform size and baking.

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