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Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes: How to Make the Iconic Treat at Home


If you’ve ever visited Magnolia Bakery, you know their cupcakes are legendary. These New York City-famous cupcakes are known for their buttery, moist texture and luscious swirls of creamy frosting. Whether you’re a fan of their classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or seasonal flavors, there’s something magical about biting into a perfectly baked Magnolia cupcake.

Now, you don’t have to travel to NYC to enjoy them! With this Magnolia Bakery-inspired cupcake recipe, you can recreate the famous flavors in your own kitchen. Follow this step-by-step guide for the best homemade Magnolia-style cupcakes.


Why Are Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes So Popular?

Iconic NYC Dessert: Featured in movies and TV shows like Sex and the City.
Perfectly Moist Texture: A balance of butter, sugar, and milk creates a soft crumb.
Light and Fluffy Frosting: Their signature buttercream is smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet.
Classic and Creative Flavors: From vanilla and chocolate to red velvet and banana pudding cupcakes.


Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Signature Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Food coloring (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes at Home

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.

Step 4: Add Milk and Vanilla

Slowly add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk and vanilla extract. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream Frosting

Beat butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Add sprinkles or edible glitter for a classic Magnolia look!


Pro Tips for the Perfect Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined for light, fluffy cupcakes.
Chill the Frosting – If it’s too soft, refrigerate for 10 minutes before piping.
Customize Your Cupcakes – Try different extracts, fillings, or colored frosting.


Popular Magnolia Bakery Cupcake Flavors to Try

🌟 Classic Vanilla: Their best-selling simple, buttery vanilla cupcake.
🌟 Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Rich, moist chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream.
🌟 Red Velvet: Iconic deep red cupcake with cream cheese frosting.
🌟 Banana Pudding Cupcake: Inspired by their famous banana pudding!
🌟 Seasonal Specials: Pumpkin spice, peppermint mocha, and more!


Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve Fresh: Best enjoyed within 24 hours for ultimate freshness.
  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for Later: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes at home is easier than you think! With this simple recipe, you can bake fluffy, delicious cupcakes just like the ones from NYC. Whether you're making them for a party, a gift, or just to treat yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Happy Baking! 🧁💛

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