Vanilla Cupcakes with a Magnolia Bakery Twist (Vegan Option Included)

Whisk up a batch of these delightfully light and airy vanilla cupcakes that are reminiscent of the famed Magnolia Bakery. The best part? This recipe offers flexibility to make them vegan and dairy-free without compromising on the fluffiness and flavor.

Magnolia-Style Vanilla Cupcake Ingredients:

• 200ml Milk (Opt for almond milk or your preferred alternative for a vegan version)
• 1/2 tsp White Vinegar
• 20g Plain Unsweetened Yogurt (Almond yogurt for a vegan alternative)
• 140g Granulated Sugar
• 60ml Canola Oil
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 10g Corn Starch
• 6g Baking Powder
• 1/4 tsp Baking Soda
• 150g All Purpose Flour
• A pinch (1/8 tsp) of Salt

Cupcake Directions:

1. Begin by mixing together milk, vinegar, and yogurt in a bowl. Allow this mixture to sit for around 5 minutes.
2. To this, add in the sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together all the dry ingredients.
4. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the liquid ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Pour the batter into cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 13-15 minutes, or until they spring back when touched.

Lush Buttercream Frosting Ingredients:

• 220g Unsalted Butter (or vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative), cubed
• 240g Powdered Sugar, sifted
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 20 ml Whipping Cream (or vegan alternative)
• A drop of Red/Pink food color (optional for a pastel touch)

Frosting Directions:

1. Whip the butter using an electric mixer or paddle attachment on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until it’s creamy and lightened in color.
2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, continuing to beat for another 4-5 minutes until the mixture is fluffy.
3. Pour in the whipping cream and mix for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. If desired, add a drop of food coloring to give your frosting a subtle hue.
5. Frost your cooled cupcakes using a piping bag fitted with your preferred nozzle, or simply use an ice cream scoop for a rustic touch.

Serve these cupcakes with a side of smiles and nostalgia, as they transport you to the streets of New York and the iconic Magnolia Bakery. Enjoy!