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Grape Crush Cupcakes

Grape Crush Cupcakes

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These Grape Crush Cupcakes are a fun, fruity twist on classic cupcakes, bursting with the nostalgic flavor of grape soda. The light, fluffy cake is infused with Grape Crush for that unmistakable pop flavor, while the frosting is sweet, creamy, and vibrantly purple. I love making these when I want something playful, colorful, and totally unique for parties or just because.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, vibrant, and brings a burst of childhood flavor in every bite. The grape soda not only adds flavor but also gives the cupcakes a soft, airy texture. They’re perfect for birthdays, themed parties, or whenever I want to bake something eye-catching and delicious. And with that gorgeous purple frosting, they’re always a hit.

ingredients

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

For the cupcakes:

  • All-purpose flour

  • Baking powder

  • Salt

  • Unsalted butter, softened

  • Granulated sugar

  • Eggs

  • Vanilla extract

  • Grape Crush soda (or any grape-flavored soda)

For the frosting:

  • Unsalted butter, softened

  • Powdered sugar

  • Grape Crush soda (reduced for stronger flavor)

  • Vanilla extract

  • Purple food coloring (optional for a vibrant color)

directions

  1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

  2. In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

  3. In another bowl, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

  4. I beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.

  5. I alternate adding the dry ingredients and grape soda to the batter, mixing until just combined.

  6. I divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

  7. I bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, then let them cool completely.

For the frosting:

  1. I simmer 1/2 cup of Grape Crush in a saucepan until it reduces to about 2 tablespoons, then cool it.

  2. I beat the butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar.

  3. I mix in the reduced soda and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.

  4. I add a drop or two of purple food coloring for a bold grape look if I want extra flair.

  5. I pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and decorate as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes. Prep time is about 15 minutes, baking takes 20 minutes, and frosting adds another 10—so they’re ready to serve in about 45 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a bit of lemon zest to the batter for a grape-lemon twist. For a shortcut, I’ve used a white cake mix with grape soda in place of water. I’ve also made mini cupcakes for party platters. And for extra grape flavor, I stir a few drops of grape extract into the frosting.

storage/reheating

I store these cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. They taste best at room temp, so I let them sit out for 20 minutes if they’ve been chilled. I don’t recommend reheating—just enjoy them fresh!

FAQs

Can I use a cake mix for this recipe?

Yes, I replace the liquid with Grape Crush soda and follow the rest of the box instructions. It’s an easy shortcut with great results.

Can I use a different soda?

Definitely. Orange, strawberry, or lemon-lime sodas work well if I want to try other fun flavors.

Does the soda make the cake purple?

Not on its own—the batter may have a slight tint, but I add food coloring if I want a true purple hue.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I bake and frost them the day before and store them in a covered container until ready to serve.

How do I reduce the soda for frosting?

I simmer it in a small saucepan over medium heat until it thickens and reduces to a syrup. This concentrates the flavor for a richer frosting.

Conclusion

These Grape Crush Cupcakes are a playful, colorful treat that’s just as fun to eat as they are to make. With soft, soda-infused cake and sweet, creamy frosting, they bring a burst of grape flavor and a touch of whimsy to any occasion. Whether I’m baking them for a celebration or just to brighten the day, they always bring smiles and second helpings.

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Grape Crush Cupcakes

Grape Crush Cupcakes

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  • Author: Linda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Grape Crush Cupcakes are a playful, fruity dessert made with grape soda for a nostalgic burst of flavor. These cupcakes feature soft, soda-infused cake and vibrant purple frosting, perfect for parties and fun occasions.

Ingredients

  • 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 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup Grape Crush soda
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 2 tbsp reduced Grape Crush soda (for frosting)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • Purple food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and Grape Crush soda, mixing until just combined.
  6. Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each 2/3 full.
  7. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  8. Simmer 1/2 cup Grape Crush soda until reduced to 2 tbsp, then cool.
  9. Beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar.
  10. Mix in reduced soda and vanilla. Add food coloring if desired.
  11. Pipe or spread frosting on cooled cupcakes. Decorate as desired.

Notes

  • Add lemon zest to batter for a grape-lemon twist.
  • Use white cake mix and grape soda as a shortcut.
  • Stir grape extract into frosting for extra flavor.
  • Make mini cupcakes for party platters.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cupcake
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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