Chocolate Chip Vanilla Cupcake

Name: Chocolate Chip Vanilla Cupcake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely love baking cupcakes, and there's something incredibly special about combining rich chocolate chips with a classic vanilla base. The moment you break into one of these delightful treats, the melty chocolate chips create a perfect contrast to the soft, fluffy vanilla cake. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for everything from birthday celebrations to casual afternoon snacks. I can hardly resist having one (or two!) fresh out of the oven—especially when they are topped with a creamy frosting that complements the flavors beautifully.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:09:27.828Z

Baking these Chocolate Chip Vanilla Cupcakes is a cherished tradition in my home. The balance of flavors is something I've perfected over time. After experimenting with various ratios of flour, sugar, and chocolate, I found that adding chocolate chips right at the end of the mixing process preserves their melted goodness when baked. I also discovered that letting the batter rest for a few minutes yields an airy texture.

Each time I whip up a batch, I am reminded of birthdays and celebrations filled with laughter and happy faces. It's always a joy to see the delight in my friends' eyes as they take that first bite. The combination of moist vanilla cake and irresistible chocolate chips never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
Perfectly sweet with a hint of chocolatey goodness
Soft and fluffy texture that's irresistibly light
Great for parties or an everyday treat

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these chocolate chip vanilla cupcakes plays a crucial role in achieving their delightful texture and flavor. All-purpose flour provides structure, while the granulated sugar helps create a tender crumb with a hint of sweetness. The butter not only adds richness but also moisture, which is essential for a soft and fluffy texture. If you find yourself out of butter, a 1:1 substitution with coconut oil can maintain a similar consistency, though the flavor will slightly change.

The milk contributes to the moistness of the cupcakes and helps in activating the baking powder. For a non-dairy version, you can use almond milk or oat milk without impacting the taste significantly. The egg is vital for binding the ingredients together. If you're looking for an egg substitute, I recommend using a flaxseed meal mixture, where one tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water effectively replicates the binding quality of an egg.

Baking and Texture Tips

When baking the cupcakes, keeping an eye on the time is essential to prevent dryness. Bake until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, which should take around 15 minutes. If you prefer a slightly denser cupcake, you can also reduce the baking powder by half a teaspoon. Remember to rotate the cupcake tray halfway through baking; this ensures even cooking and helps avoid unevenly baked cupcakes.

Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the tray for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This transition is important as it allows them to fully set while preventing any sogginess. Ideally, you want to frost the cupcakes after they reach room temperature, so they don’t melt your frosting. A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly, but a drizzle of ganache can add an extra decadent twist.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make the baking process smooth!

Cupcake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create something delicious!

Instructions

Let's get started on making these cupcakes!

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tray with paper liners.

Mix the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Blend Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Bake

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite frosting!

Your cupcakes are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of espresso powder or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and consider giving them a quick pop in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance their fluffiness.

For serving, consider garnishing these cupcakes with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance. If you're hosting a party, you can create a cupcake tower by stacking them on a tiered stand—it not only looks inviting but also allows guests to serve themselves easily.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

If you're looking to experiment with flavors, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a mocha-inspired cupcake. Alternatively, you can swap out the chocolate chips for chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist. For those who adore citrus, incorporating a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest in your batter will brighten the flavor profile beautifully.

For a more indulgent treat, after baking, you can hollow out the center of each cupcake and fill it with a dollop of your favorite caramel or jam before topping them with frosting. This hidden surprise will delight anyone who bites into these delightful cupcakes, making them even more of a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute in the recipe.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the cupcakes in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

You can substitute with chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor.