Name: Grape Soda Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 egg whites, room temperature; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 ½ cup grape soda; 15.25 ounces white cake mix; .14 ounce unsweetened grape flavored drink mix; 4-6 drops purple gel food color; 1 cup salted butter, 2 sticks (2 sticks); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon pure almond extract; 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream; 4-6 drops purple gel food coloring

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 23 reviews

If you’re looking to delight a crowd with something unique and irresistibly fun, Grape Soda Cupcakes are exactly what you need. These whimsical treats combine the undeniable nostalgia of fizzy grape soda with tender, fluffy cupcakes and a cloud of purple buttercream. Each bite is a vibrant burst of grape goodness that just makes you smile—from their playful color to their sweet, fruity flavor. Whether for birthday parties, family gatherings, or just a lively weekend baking project, Grape Soda Cupcakes are guaranteed to be a conversation starter and a new favorite for all ages!

Grape Soda Cupcakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Grape Soda Cupcakes lies in a short and simple ingredient list, but every element works together to create incredible flavor, softness, and that unmistakable purple hue. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient shines.

Egg whites, room temperature: They help create a delicate crumb and keep the cupcakes light and airy.
Vegetable oil: Ensures the cupcakes stay moist for days, while giving a subtle richness.
Grape soda: This is where the signature flavor comes from! It also adds lift and tang to the crumb.
White cake mix: The perfect blank canvas to let the grape flavor pop, and it simplifies the whole process.
Unsweetened grape flavored drink mix: Supercharges the grape taste and color—think powdered Kool-Aid or any brand you love.
Purple gel food color: Just a few drops turn your batter and frosting vibrantly purple (totally optional but highly recommended for a wow factor!).
Salted butter: That creamy base for your frosting, balancing the sweetness and making it deeply satisfying.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the frosting flavor.
Pure almond extract: Just a touch brings a lovely undertone that enhances all the other flavors.
Powdered sugar, sifted: Key for a fluffy, smooth buttercream with no lumps.
Heavy cream: Softens and enriches the frosting, giving it an ultra light, pipeable texture.
Purple sparkling sugar (optional): A sparkly finishing touch that’s as festive as it gets!

How to Make Grape Soda Cupcakes

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Cupcake Liners

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s perfectly hot by the time your batter is ready. Line a regular muffin tin with cupcake liners—go for any color or pattern that makes you happy, but a pop of purple really plays up the grape soda cupcake theme!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the egg whites, vegetable oil, and grape soda. Use a handheld mixer on medium-low speed to whisk everything until smooth and a little frothy. The soda makes things lively, so expect a bit of fizz and foam (that’s good!).

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients and Flavor Boosters

Lower your mixer speed to low, then add the white cake mix and the unsweetened grape drink mix. If you want that show-stopping purple, add 2-3 drops of purple gel food coloring now. Mix just until the color is even and no pockets of powder remain, being careful not to overmix—the key to light, fluffy grape soda cupcakes lies in a gentle hand.

Step 4: Fill and Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon or scoop the batter into your prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full so they have room to rise. Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs—start checking at the 12-minute mark, since ovens can vary. Once done, gently transfer the cupcakes to a wire cooling rack and let them cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Grape Soda Buttercream

In a large mixing bowl (or your stand mixer), beat the softened salted butter with the vanilla and almond extracts for 1 to 1 and a half minutes on medium-high, until it’s creamy and airy. Reduce the mixer to low, then add sifted powdered sugar about a cup at a time, alternating with heavy cream, until fully incorporated. Switch to medium-high and beat until wonderfully fluffy—then add a few drops of purple gel color and mix until the hue is even and vibrant.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Spoon the buttercream into a piping bag with your favorite shaped tip, or simply snip the corner off a gallon-size zip-top bag. Pipe a sky-high swirl over each completely cooled cupcake. For a magical finish, sprinkle on purple sparkling sugar. Now, stand back and admire your batch of gorgeous, grape soda cupcakes!

How to Serve Grape Soda Cupcakes

Garnishes

Let’s take these Grape Soda Cupcakes to the next level! Besides the classic shimmer of purple sparkling sugar, try topping each with a candy grape, a twist of fruit leather, or even a mini straw for a charming soda shop vibe. Play around with edible glitter, violet sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate to suit the occasion.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes are bold and sweet, so pair them with light, fresh sides at your dessert table. Think fruit skewers, tangy lemonade, or a bowl of whipped cream and berries. If you’re building a dessert buffet, try contrasting with lemon bars, vanilla ice cream, or simple butter cookies—the combination is unexpectedly wonderful!

Creative Ways to Present

Make your grape soda cupcakes unforgettable with creative presentation! Arrange them on a vintage cake stand, nestle each in a paper “soda cup” with a decorative straw, or display them as part of a vibrant purple-themed party platter. For kids’ parties, create a cupcake tower, or send each guest home with their own cupcake in a decorated box as a delicious party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, these Grape Soda Cupcakes keep wonderfully! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days—their moist crumb and rich frosting hold up well, making them perfect for savoring over several days.

Freezing

Want to prepare ahead? These cupcakes are freezer-friendly. Once frosted, freeze them uncovered on a tray for about an hour (just until the buttercream hardens), then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Grape Soda Cupcakes are best enjoyed at room temperature so the frosting is truly creamy and the cake tender. If you’ve stored them in the fridge or freezer, just let them sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use diet grape soda or is full sugar better?

For best flavor and rise, stick with regular, full-sugar grape soda in your Grape Soda Cupcakes. Diet sodas may not provide the same lift or flavor intensity, but in a pinch, they’ll still work if that’s what you have on hand.

What can I substitute for grape drink mix?

Any brand of grape-flavored powdered drink mix (like store brands or Kool-Aid) works perfectly. If you can’t find any, try reducing a little grape juice or using a few drops of grape flavor extract for extra punch—just mind the moisture in your batter.

Can I make mini Grape Soda Cupcakes with this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe makes about 48 mini cupcakes. Just fill your mini liners about two-thirds full and bake for around 10 minutes. They’re perfect for parties or snacking.

Is purple gel food coloring necessary?

It’s totally optional, but highly recommended if you want that vivid grape color. Without it, your cupcakes will still taste fantastic, but the color will be much lighter and more muted.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just double all the ingredients and bake in batches. The formula is sturdy and reliable, so it scales up beautifully—ideal for big parties or events.

Final Thoughts

Baking a batch of Grape Soda Cupcakes is such a joyful, creative kitchen adventure—the kind you’ll want to share with friends, family, or anyone who loves a playful twist on classic desserts. With their stunning color, nostalgic flavor, and breezy prep, these cupcakes are bound to become a beloved treat in your recipe box. Don’t wait for a special occasion—whip up a batch and taste the magic of grape soda in cupcake form!