Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe

Soft, moist, and full of rich vanilla flavor, Gordon Ramsay’s vanilla cupcakes are the perfect sweet treat. These bakery-style cupcakes are topped with a light and creamy vanilla buttercream, making them ideal for celebrations, afternoon tea, or a homemade indulgence. With a golden crumb and real vanilla aroma, this recipe delivers on both taste and presentation.

What are Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes?

Gordon Ramsay’s vanilla cupcakes are light sponge cakes flavored with real vanilla extract, topped with smooth buttercream frosting. They’re made using the creaming method for maximum fluffiness and are baked until lightly golden. His version emphasizes quality ingredients, balance of flavor, and simple techniques for perfect results every time.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes

Gordon Ramsay Oatmeal Cookies

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Soft, airy texture
Fluffy cupcakes that stay moist for days.
Classic flavor everyone loves
Vanilla is a timeless crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for decorating
Add sprinkles, fruit, or piping for special occasions.
Quick and easy to make
Ready in under 40 minutes.
Freezer-friendly
Both cupcakes and frosting freeze well.

Customizable base
Pairs well with different fillings and frostings.

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

For the cupcakes:

1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar

2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup (120ml) whole milk

For the vanilla buttercream:

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups (220g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 tablespoon milk or cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Preheat the oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tray with paper cupcake liners.

Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Combine wet and dry: Add half the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mix, then add milk. Stir in the remaining flour mixture just until smooth.
Fill cupcake liners: Spoon batter evenly into the liners, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake the cupcakes: Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool completely: Let cupcakes rest in the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before frosting.
Make the buttercream: Beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla, milk, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Frost and decorate: Pipe or spread the buttercream onto cooled cupcakes. Add sprinkles or garnish as desired.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Fresh berries – Adds color and fruity contrast.
Lemon curd filling – Brightens the vanilla flavor.
Chocolate drizzle or chips – A richer flavor twist.

Sprinkles or edible flowers – Enhances presentation.
Cup of Earl Grey or coffee – Balances the sweetness.

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Use room-temperature ingredients – Helps create a smooth, evenly mixed batter.

Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
Use real vanilla extract – For full, natural flavor.
Fill liners evenly – Ensures even baking and consistent shape.

Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting – Prevents buttercream from melting.
Sift powdered sugar for the frosting – Avoids lumps.
Store in a cool place – Especially if frosted with butter-based icing.

Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Add lemon or orange zest – For a citrus twist.
Fill with jam, chocolate, or caramel – Surprise inside each cupcake.
Use cream cheese frosting – For tangier flavor.

Top with toasted coconut or nuts – For texture and flavor.
Make mini cupcakes – Adjust bake time to 10–12 minutes.
Swirl in raspberry puree – For color and fruity contrast.

Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Store in an airtight container – Keeps them soft for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate if frosted – Especially with dairy-based frosting; bring to room temperature before serving.
Freeze cupcakes unfrosted – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Freeze buttercream separately – Thaw and re-whip before use.

Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Vanilla Cupcakes

Microwave for 10 seconds (unfrosted): Just to refresh the texture if needed.
Oven method: Warm briefly at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

Avoid microwaving frosted cupcakes: Frosting may melt or separate.
Let thaw at room temperature if frozen: Best texture and flavor come back gradually.

Nutrition Value (per cupcake with frosting):

Calories: 310

Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Sugar: 28g

Protein: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sodium: 180mg

Final Words

Gordon Ramsay’s vanilla cupcakes offer a reliable, delicious base for any occasion—from birthdays to simple treats at home. With their moist crumb and creamy vanilla frosting, they deliver bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Master this recipe once, and you’ll never need another.