Easy Gluten Free Cupcakes: The Ultimate, Simple Recipe

January 8, 2026

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Easy gluten free cupcakes, who doesn’t love them? This recipe has quickly climbed the ranks as a go to, easy treat in my kitchen, and I know it will in yours too. I’ve always believed that delicious baked goods shouldn’t be off limits, especially when you have dietary restrictions. That is why I have perfected this recipe for you, so you can enjoy the wonderful world of baking too! These easy gluten free cupcakes are irresistibly moist and flavorful, proving that gluten free can be absolutely delicious.

It all started with a friend’s birthday. She’s gluten free, and I refused to let her miss out on the cake. After several attempts (and a few crumbly disasters), I finally landed on this perfect recipe.

Why You Will Love This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

These easy gluten free cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor and inclusivity! Forget everything you thought you knew about gluten free baking. This recipe delivers cupcakes that are unbelievably moist, tender, and bursting with deliciousness.

What makes this recipe special? It’s the simplicity. I use a blend of gluten free flours, along with just the right amount of moisture and leavening, to create a texture that rivals traditional cupcakes. You won’t believe they re gluten free!

And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re new to gluten free baking, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and foolproof. I’ve tested it countless times to ensure perfect results every time. Trust me; these easy gluten free cupcakes are a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

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Ingredients Needed for This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

For the Cupcakes:
  • 1 ½ cups gluten free all purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup milk
For the Frosting:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: Sprinkles for decoration

How to Make This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

  1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12 cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even mixing of the dry ingredients.
  3. 3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes 2 3 minutes with an electric mixer.
  4. 4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated.
  5. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. 6. Fill each cupcake liner about two thirds full. Evenly distribute the batter among the liners.
  7. 7. Bake for 18 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on them!
  8. 8. Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure they’re cool before frosting so your frosting doesn’t melt.
  9. 9. While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This may require some patience to avoid powdered sugar clouds!
  10. 10. Beat in the milk and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
  11. 11. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with your favorite frosting and decorate with sprinkles, if desired. I love using a piping bag for even frosting!
Enjoy your freshly made easy gluten free cupcakes! And for more gluten free baking adventures, check out Easy Gluten Free Cupcakes 4.

How to Serve This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

These easy gluten free cupcakes are perfect for any occasion! Serve them at birthday parties, potlucks, or even just as a special treat for yourself. You can pair them with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of ice cream.

For a festive touch, try topping them with seasonal sprinkles or fresh berries. They also look beautiful arranged on a tiered cake stand. Consider swapping out the frosting for a light glaze.

How to Store This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

To keep your easy gluten free cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The refrigerator will help the cupcakes stay fresher for a longer duration.

For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer safe bag or container. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

  • Ingredient Swap: If you don’t have milk, you can use almond milk or another dairy free alternative.
  • Success Tip: Measure your gluten free flour carefully. Too much or too little can affect the texture.
  • Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes.
  • Pro Tip: Use a high quality gluten free flour blend for the best results. I have found that this makes a difference in the end result!
For a chocolate version of these beauties, be sure to try Easy Gluten Free Cupcakes 5.

Helpful Notes for This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

Gluten free flour blends can vary, so make sure to use one that contains xanthan gum, which acts as a binder in gluten free baking. The quality matters for easy gluten free cupcakes.

If you don’t have cupcake liners, you can grease the muffin tin well with butter or cooking spray. Watch out for soggy bottoms!

Variation of This easy gluten free cupcakes Recipe

  • Seasonal Twist: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the batter for a fall inspired cupcake.
  • Optional Version: Mix chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter for added flavor and texture.
  • Creative Modifications: Try using different extracts, like almond or lemon, to customize the flavor. Consider making a large cake instead of cupcakes if desired.
And don’t forget to try my other recipe for Easy Gluten Free Cupcakes 3.

What makes these gluten-free cupcakes easy to make?

This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it perfect for beginner bakers. Plus, it requires minimal specialized equipment.

How do I ensure my gluten-free cupcakes are moist?

Using the right blend of gluten-free flour, adding moisture-rich ingredients like yogurt or applesauce, and avoiding overbaking are key. Follow the recipe closely for best results.

Can I add frosting to these easy gluten free cupcakes?

Absolutely! Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, you can frost them with your favorite frosting. Buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a simple glaze work well.

What is the best gluten-free flour to use for cupcakes?

A blend of gluten-free flours specifically designed for baking, like one containing rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch, will yield the best results. Check the label to ensure it contains xanthan gum or add some separately.

Conclusion

These easy gluten free cupcakes are sure to become a new favorite. Not only are they simple to make, but they’re also incredibly delicious and satisfying. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of delightful treats! I would love to see pictures of your easy gluten free cupcakes, be sure to tag me! Happy baking!

Print

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Easy Gluten Free Cupcakes: The Ultimate, Simple Recipe


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x

Description

Moist and delicious gluten free cupcakes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups gluten free all purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup milk
  • **For the Frosting:**
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12 cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fill each cupcake liner about two thirds full.
  7. Bake for 18 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
  10. Beat in the milk and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
  11. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with your favorite frosting and decorate with sprinkles, if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: gluten-free, cupcakes, easy, vanilla

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