Magnolia Bakery Cupcake
The Magnolia Bakery Cupcake is a timeless classic cupcake recipe that combines a moist, tender cake with a rich yet balanced creamy frosting. Known for its fluffy texture and signature warm vanilla flavor, this recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create an indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Easy to customize and perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, these cupcakes offer a balanced sweetness and moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Regular (can be made Gluten Free with substitution)
Cake Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners. Bring butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature for smooth mixing and even baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to ensure an airy texture and avoid clumps.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter with granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, incorporating air to help the cupcakes rise properly.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for warm, inviting flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and whole milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Bake to Perfection: Spoon the batter evenly into cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat the unsalted butter until smooth, gradually add confectioners’ sugar and heavy cream until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract for a creamy finish.
- Frost and Decorate: Using a piping bag or spatula, generously frost each cupcake. Add sprinkles or decorations as desired to complete the look.
Notes
- Bring all wet ingredients to room temperature for best results and smoother batter.
- Do not overmix batter once dry ingredients are added to keep cupcakes tender.
- Use fresh baking powder for optimal rise and fluffiness.
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use a piping bag with a star tip to replicate the bakery’s signature frosting style.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Magnolia Bakery Cupcake, classic cupcake recipe, moist cupcakes, vanilla cupcakes, homemade cupcakes, easy cupcake recipe