Joanna Gaines' Heritage-Style Cake Stand Will Turn the Simplest Desserts Into an Elegant and Festive Table Centerpiece
Magnolia's carved wood cake stand will elevate your basic bakes this holiday
When it comes to holiday hosting, there's a lot to think about – and while I love to plan elaborate gatherings, sometimes the simplest details can really stand out. This year, I'm keen to try out a more laid-back approach to Christmas table decor ideas, and I'm starting with Joanna Gaines' Eleanor carved wood cake stand and dome, which I'll be using to create a simple, yet stunning festive centerpiece.
I've certainly been tempted by all the kitchenware in Joanna Gaines' new cooking show – but a stylish cake stand is a hard-working piece that everyone should have in their hosting armoury. You'll find an impressive selection at Magnolia, but the rustic, vintage-inspired design of the Eleanor cake stand has won me over.
The intricate etching on the wood provides plenty of cottagecore charm, while the sweeping glass dome is the perfect finishing touch. Display a homemade cake or Yule log inside – don't be afraid to spruce up a shop-bought bake if you're looking to save time – and you'll have an instant Christmas centerpiece.
Having spent the past few months trying out Magnolia Table recipes, I've been channeling Joanna Gaines' rustic kitchen and investing in a few choice pieces to elevate my baking setup. Magnolia's stoneware measuring spoons came first, along with the blush glass measuring cup set, the colorful Laurie spatula bundle, and my all-important mixing bowls.
Yet I can confidently say that Magnolia's Eleanor cake stand is my most exciting kitchen investment in a while. It's a real rustic masterpiece: naturally, plain cake stands (like Magnolia's antique wood scalloped cake stand) can be more understated, but the glass dome creates a different look. It makes my home feel like a bakery, and I know my guests will be so impressed when I showcase it proudly in the center of my holiday table.
Put your freshly baked treats on display using Magnolia's stunning serveware
I'll also be making use of my cake stand for more casual gatherings, whether I'm baking a batch of Joanna's famous Silo Cookies or whipping up Joanna's sugar cookies for a morning coffee or holiday gathering with the neighbors or a full-on cookie exchange party. Alternatively, arranging them on a beautiful cake stand as an after-dinner treat, really will make me feel like a sophisticated host. Serve with after-dinner drinks or coffee for the easiest dessert.
So, trust me: a cake stand is the perfect last-minute gift for any keen bakers in your life. It's also ideal if you're planning to add to your Christmas kitchen countertop decor, or simply upgrade your tableware for the new year.
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Shop More Magnolia Centerpiece-Worthy Serveware
Jump on the scalloped decor trend with this wavy-edge cake stand. While the base boasts a more contemporary look, I love that the glass dome still has a vintage feel thanks to its etched design.
I recently invested in a tiered serving platter from Walmart and it's been a real game-changer during busy holiday celebrations. Tiered stands save so much space on the table, and they look chic, too.
This elegant stand is perfect for serving freshly baked bread, but I'd use it to show off any bakery treat at the center of my table. I love the carved design and rustic mango wood finish.
I think a pretty serving board is something every home cook should have in their kitchen, and I have a real soft spot for this antique-inspired option. It's ideal for everything from cookies to charcuterie.
If you prefer stoneware to rustic wood pieces, this cake stand is a wonderful choice. I adore the gently ruffled shape and the earthy, off-white glaze – I think it complements any kitchen color scheme.
If you're looking for affordable serveware that will still make a statement, you can't go wrong with this dainty marble platter. I'd display it on my countertop all year round.
My Eleanor carved wood cake stand will take pride of place on my holiday table this year – I'm determined to recreate Joanna Gaines' Christmas table setup, and it all starts with some handsome serveware.

Martha is a Content Editor on the Living team at Homes & Gardens. Her love for lifestyle journalism began when she interned at Time Out Dubai when she was 15 years old; she went on to study English and German at Oxford, before covering property and interior design at Country & Town House magazine. To Martha, living beautifully is all about good food and lots of colorful home decor.