• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation of our cupcakes. All-purpose flour provides the perfect balance of tenderness and strength to hold up inside the cone.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: The primary leavening agent, this is what gives the cupcakes their beautiful rise and light, airy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: A crucial flavor enhancer. Salt doesn’t make the cupcakes salty; it balances the sweetness and brings out the richness of the butter and vanilla.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature: Using room temperature butter is essential for the creaming process, which incorporates air into the batter for a fluffy result. Unsalted butter allows you to control the exact amount of salt in the recipe.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and also helps in the creaming process to create a tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Eggs act as a binder, add moisture, and contribute to the richness and structure of the cupcake. Room temperature eggs mix more evenly into the batter.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: This is where the classic, warm flavor comes from. Use pure extract, not imitation, for the best and most authentic taste.
• ⅔ cup whole milk, at room temperature: Adds moisture and fat, resulting in a tender, flavorful cupcake. Room temperature milk ensures the batter stays smooth and doesn’t cause the butter to seize up.
• 24-30 flat-bottomed mini ice cream cones: These are the star of the show! Flat-bottomed cones are crucial for stability during baking and serving.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature: The base of our frosting. It needs to be softened but not melted to whip into a light and fluffy consistency.
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted: This provides the sweetness and structure of the frosting. Sifting is a non-negotiable step to avoid lumps and ensure a silky-smooth texture.
• ¼ cup heavy cream or whole milk: This is used to thin the frosting to the perfect piping consistency. Heavy cream will yield a richer result.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: For that classic, sweet vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with the cupcake.
• Pinch of salt: Just a tiny amount to cut through the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Optional: Sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and maraschino cherries for decorating: These are the finishing touches that complete the ice cream illusion.
