If you love sweet treats, you need to try this delightful recipe for Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes. Inspired by the famous bakery in New York City, these cupcakes are a favorite for many. Their moist, fluffy texture and sweet, creamy icing make them irresistible. Whether it’s for a birthday, a special event, or just a weekend treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to make these cupcakes. They are easy and beginner-friendly, making them perfect for anyone just starting in the kitchen. Instead of buying store-bought cupcakes, you can enjoy the satisfaction of making them at home. Not only are they delicious, but they also save you time and money. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Who doesn’t love a homemade cupcake?
What makes Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe special
What truly sets these cupcakes apart is their unique taste and texture. They are incredibly moist thanks to the combination of whole milk and sour cream. This blend adds richness and depth to every bite. The soft cake paired with the sweet and creamy frosting makes for a delightful treat. Plus, the simple yet elegant presentation is perfect for any occasion. You’ll find that they stand out from other cupcake recipes because of this perfect balance.
Is Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe healthy
When it comes to homemade treats, there are some benefits. This recipe uses natural ingredients you can find in your pantry. While cupcakes are a dessert, and they do contain sugar and butter, making them at home allows you to control what goes into your food. Being mindful of portion sizes can also help you enjoy these treats without overindulging. So while they are not an everyday healthy snack, they are a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation.
How to make Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe
Making these cupcakes is simple and stress-free. You’ll start by mixing dry ingredients, followed by combining the wet ingredients. Then, you’ll cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, gradually adding everything together. After that, scoop the batter into cupcake liners, bake, and cool. Finally, you’ll whip up a quick icing and pipe it onto the cupcakes. Overall, the process is straightforward and takes about an hour, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
Ingredients
For the perfect cupcakes, gather these ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour (170 gm)
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk (125 ml)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (61.3 gm)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115 gm)
- 3/4 cups granulated sugar (150 gm)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (115 gm)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (224 gm)
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (45 ml)
- 1 drop red gel food coloring
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners, then set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the whole milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Scrape down the bowl and add the egg whites. Mix until incorporated.
- Scrape down the bowl again.
- To the creamed butter mixture, add half of the wet ingredients and then half of the dry ingredients, mixing until incorporated.
- Scrape down the bowl and add in the second half of the wet and then dry mixture until fully incorporated.
- Scoop the batter into prepared cupcake liners, filling them 3/4 full (about 1/4 cup of batter each).
- Bake the cupcakes for 20 to 22 minutes until the tops spring back when touched.
- Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, add the butter and powdered sugar and beat until crumbly.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, beating until smooth.
- Adjust with additional milk if needed for consistency.
- Add a small drop of gel food coloring and mix well.
- Place a piping bag into a large cup to hold it upright, then scoop the icing into the bag.
- Squeeze the icing down to remove air bubbles, twist the top to secure, and trim the end to create a medium-sized opening.
- Starting from the outside, pipe the icing in a circle, finishing in the middle of the cupcake with consistent light pressure.
How to serve Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe
These cupcakes are perfect for any time of the day. You can serve them as a delightful dessert after dinner or as a treat during a weekend brunch. Pair them with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. They can be presented on a beautiful cake stand or simply arranged on a platter for easy serving. No matter when or how you serve them, they are sure to be a hit.

Best occasions to make Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe
These cupcakes fit perfectly into any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, throwing a birthday party, or preparing desserts for a holiday, they will impress your guests. They are also great for quick snacks or weekday treats. Making them can easily turn a regular day into a special one.
How to store Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe
To keep these cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Can you make Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe ahead of time
Absolutely! You can prepare the cupcake batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to bake them fresh for the best taste. If you bake them in advance, store the cupcakes in an airtight container. Icing can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge. Just let it soften before using.
Tips to make Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes Recipe
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Be careful not to overmix your batter to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Use a cookie scoop for even cupcake sizes.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; it’s essential for perfect icing.
Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious, light, and fluffy cupcakes inspired by the famous Magnolia Bakery in NYC, topped with creamy icing.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour (170 gm)
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk (125 ml)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (61.3 gm)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115 gm)
- 3/4 cups granulated sugar (150 gm)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (115 gm)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (224 gm)
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (45 ml)
- 1 drop red gel food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the whole milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
- Using a mixer, cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg whites and mix until incorporated.
- Add half of the wet ingredients and half of the dry ingredients, mixing until incorporated.
- Add in the second half of the wet and dry mixtures until fully incorporated.
- Scoop the batter into prepared cupcake liners, filling them 3/4 full.
- Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the tops spring back when touched.
- Let cool on a cooling rack completely.
- For the icing, beat the butter and powdered sugar until crumbly.
- Add milk and vanilla to the mixture, beating until smooth.
- Use red gel food coloring and mix well.
- Pipe the icing onto the cooled cupcakes as desired.
Notes
Use a cookie scoop for even cupcake sizes and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Variation
You can get creative with these cupcakes. Try adding lemon or almond extract for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in chocolate chips or switch to gluten-free flour if needed. For a fun twist, make mini cupcakes or try different food coloring for a festive touch.
FAQs
Can I store leftover Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes?
Yes, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.
What can I use instead of cake flour?
All-purpose flour can be used, but you may want to add a tablespoon of cornstarch per cup to replicate the tenderness of cake flour.
How long do these cupcakes stay fresh?
When stored properly, these cupcakes can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days, or up to a week in the fridge.
Enjoy baking your delightful Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes!


