Copycat Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes – Soft, Fluffy & Delicious!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the Eggs:

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Alternately add the flour mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until smooth.
Bake the Cupcakes:

Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cupcakes:

Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
For the Frosting:

Make the Buttercream:

Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract.
Add Color (Optional):

If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to the frosting and mix until the color is even.
Frost the Cupcakes:

Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. For a bakery-style finish, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles.
Serving and Storage Tips: