Grape Crush Cupcakes

Grape Crush cupcakes are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic dessert. These light, fluffy cupcakes are infused with the sweet taste of grape soda and topped with a smooth, grape-flavored frosting. They’re playful, colorful, and perfect for parties or when I want to make something a little nostalgic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these cupcakes because they’re simple to make yet feel unique and special. The grape soda gives them a distinct fruity sweetness that reminds me of childhood treats, while the frosting ties everything together with a creamy finish. I also like that they’re vibrant and eye-catching, making them a great choice for birthdays, celebrations, or just when I want to bake something fun.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Granulated sugar

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Eggs

• Grape soda (such as Grape Crush)

• Vanilla extract

• Purple food coloring (optional, for a brighter color)

• Powdered sugar

• Heavy cream or milk

Directions

I begin by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time. I stir in the vanilla and a splash of grape soda.

Next, I alternate adding the dry ingredients and more grape soda to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. If I want the color more vibrant, I add a drop or two of purple food coloring. I divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake until the cupcakes are light and springy.

For the frosting, I beat butter until creamy, then slowly add powdered sugar, a little grape soda, and cream until smooth and fluffy. Once the cupcakes are cool, I frost them generously and sometimes add sprinkles for fun.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 cupcakes. It usually takes me around 15 minutes to prep the batter, 20 minutes to bake, and another 15 minutes to cool and frost, so I can have them ready in about 50 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to use orange soda or another fruity soda for a fun flavor swap. I’ve also added grape-flavored gelatin powder to the frosting for an extra punch of grape taste. For a fancier version, I pipe the frosting high and decorate with candy grapes or edible glitter.

storage/reheating

I store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, I let them come to room temperature before serving so the frosting softens again. These cupcakes can also be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use diet grape soda?

I don’t recommend it since the sugar in regular soda helps with flavor and texture.

Do I need food coloring?

No, I don’t need it—the cupcakes will have a light purple tint from the soda, but food coloring makes them more vibrant.

Can I make these as mini cupcakes?

Yes, I just reduce the baking time to about 10–12 minutes.

Can I use a cake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?

Yes, I sometimes use a white cake mix and substitute the water with grape soda for a shortcut version.

Can I frost with something other than buttercream?

Yes, I’ve used whipped cream frosting or cream cheese frosting, both of which pair nicely with the grape flavor.

Conclusion

Grape Crush cupcakes are one of my favorite playful desserts to bake. I like how the grape soda brings a nostalgic, fruity sweetness to the cupcakes, and the frosting makes them indulgent and fun. Whether I’m making them for a party or just to brighten up my week, these cupcakes always bring a smile.