Copycat Magnolia Bakery Vanilla Cupcakes
Yield: 24 cupcakes
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20–22 minutes
Cool Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1½ cups self-rising flour
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Classic Vanilla Buttercream:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
¼ cup whole milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: food coloring (pastel shades, like pink or yellow, are classic Magnolia-style)
Instructions
1. Make the Cupcakes:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two standard muffin tins with 24 cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together both flours; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter until smooth using a hand or stand mixer.
Gradually add sugar and beat for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
Mix milk and vanilla in a measuring cup. Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix.
Divide the batter evenly among liners, filling about ¾ full.
Bake for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Make the Buttercream:
In a large bowl, cream butter until smooth and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Add powdered sugar 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
Add milk, vanilla, and salt, then beat on high for 3–5 minutes until light and creamy.
Tint with food coloring if desired.
3. Frost and Decorate:
Pipe tall, bakery-style swirls using a large star tip.
Optional: top with rainbow sprinkles or a dusting of sanding sugar for that Magnolia charm.
🌟 Tips for Authentic Magnolia Style:
Self-rising flour is key for that signature texture. Don’t substitute without adjusting leavening.
Beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy for the best crumb.
Magnolia’s classic look includes pastel frosting and generous swirls — go tall!