Description
Bright, playful, and bursting with fruity flavor, these Grape Soda Cupcakes are a fun twist on a classic dessert. They’re soft, moist, and infused with the nostalgic taste of grape soda both in the cupcake batter and the frosting. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or anytime you want to bring a little purple-colored joy to the table.
If you’re a fan of grape-flavored treats, this one’s for you. With a fluffy texture and a sweet soda-inspired zing, each bite is pure happiness in cupcake form.
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Ingredients
For the Grape Soda Cupcakes:
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1½ tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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⅔ cup grape soda
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2 tbsp sour cream (adds moisture and tang)
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Purple food coloring (optional, for a vibrant hue)
For the Grape Soda Buttercream Frosting:
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½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
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2½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
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3 tbsp grape soda (more as needed for consistency)
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Purple food coloring (optional)
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Sprinkles or candy grapes (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Grape Soda and Sour Cream
7. Mix in the sour cream and grape soda slowly until just combined.
8. If using, add a few drops of purple food coloring to enhance the color.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
9. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
10. Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
11. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
12. Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Grape Soda Frosting
13. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
14. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
15. Add grape soda, vanilla, and a few drops of purple food coloring (if using).
16. Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
17. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more soda. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
18. Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them using a piping bag or a spatula.
19. Decorate with sprinkles, candy grapes, or extra flair as desired.
Notes
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – This ensures better mixing and a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined.
Cool Completely Before Frosting – Otherwise, the frosting may melt or slide off.
Get Creative with Toppings – Try candy, glitter sprinkles, or even a tiny straw for a “soda pop” vibe.
Adjust Color Intensity – You control how purple your cupcakes are with food coloring.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Cuisine: American