Grape Crush Cupcakes

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These Grape Crush Cupcakes are a burst of fruity fun baked into fluffy, moist vanilla cupcakes. Swirled with vibrant grape frosting, they bring nostalgic soda shop vibes to your dessert table with every purple bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a whimsical treat for kids, these cupcakes never fail to turn heads and spark smiles.

What makes these cupcakes irresistible is the perfect balance of sweet grape flavor and tender crumb. The addition of grape soda in both the batter and frosting adds a fizzy tang that’s playful and delicious. Each swirl of lavender-hued frosting is as lovely to look at as it is to devour.

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Ingredients for this Grape Crush Cupcakes Recipe

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup grape soda
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Grape Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup grape soda (plus more if needed for consistency)
• Purple food coloring (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves or grape candies for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners to make removal easy and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

With the mixer on low, add half of the dry ingredients, then the grape soda and milk, followed by the remaining dry mixture. Mix just until combined – don’t overmix.

Step 6: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Grape Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with grape soda. Beat on high until fluffy. Add purple food coloring for a vibrant look, if desired.

Step 8: Decorate

Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with mint leaves or grape candies for an extra fun finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is the grape flavor?

It’s delightfully present without being overpowering. The grape soda adds a playful note that balances well with the vanilla base.

Can I use grape extract instead of soda?

Yes, but reduce the liquid slightly and add the extract to taste. The carbonation in soda adds lightness, so the texture may change.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure it’s one that includes xanthan gum for structure.

How do I get the vibrant purple color in the frosting?

A few drops of gel-based purple food coloring give the best color without thinning the frosting.

Can I use a different soda flavor?

Absolutely! Orange, cherry, or strawberry sodas all make fun variations with their own unique twist.

What piping tip works best for the swirl?

A large closed star tip like Wilton 2D or 1M creates the prettiest swirl effect.

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