Summer has finally arrived, and what better way to beat the heat than with a sweet treat that’s as cool and refreshing as a dip in the ocean? This season, we’re trading in our heavy, rich desserts for lighter, brighter options that capture the essence of summer’s vibrant flavors. Cupcakes are the perfect canvas for these refreshing recipes, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling like you’re basking in the sunshine.
From fruity and floral to creamy and dreamy, our collection of 20 refreshing summer cupcake recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet way to celebrate the season or simply want a pick-me-up treat for a hot day, these cupcakes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get ready to indulge in the taste of summer!
Lemon Blueberry Summer Cupcakes
Lemon Blueberry Summer Cupcakes: A refreshing twist on traditional cupcakes, these bite-sized treats combine the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, perfect for warm weather celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Strawberry Mojito Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of strawberries with the refreshing zing of mojito flavors, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 cup mojito extract (or 1/2 teaspoon mint extract)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add strawberries, yogurt, lime juice, and mojito extract; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tropical Pineapple Coconut Cupcakes
Escape to a tropical paradise with these moist and flavorful cupcakes, bursting with the sweetness of pineapple and the creaminess of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, milk, eggs, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with unsweetened shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Watermelon Frosted Cupcakes
These sweet treats combine the flavors of juicy watermelon and creamy frosting, perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Watermelon puree (about 1/4 cup)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with watermelon puree, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. Frost cooled cupcakes with your favorite frosting recipe.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peach Mango Summer Cupcakes
Beat the heat with these refreshing Peach Mango Summer Cupcakes, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert treat. The combination of juicy peaches and sweet mango creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup (120g) diced fresh peaches
– 1/2 cup (60g) diced fresh mango
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, then fold in peaches and mango.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Raspberry Lemonade Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of lemonade with the tartness of raspberries, making them perfect for springtime celebrations or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Key Lime Pie Cupcakes
Experience the bright, citrusy flavor of key lime pie in a convenient cupcake form. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Beat in eggs, key lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes
Brighten up your day with these moist and flavorful Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes, infused with the essence of citrus and creamy sweetness. These cupcakes are perfect for a quick dessert or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in orange zest and juice.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with heavy cream, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cherry Vanilla Summer Cupcakes
Beat the heat with these sweet and refreshing cupcakes, perfect for warm weather celebrations!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup cherry jam or preserves
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with cherry jam, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes
Beat the heat with these cool and creamy cupcakes that combine the invigorating flavor of mint with the richness of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, egg, and peppermint extract until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in milk and chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Passionfruit Coconut Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of passionfruit with the creaminess of coconut, perfect for a warm-weather treat or a unique dessert to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup pure passionfruit puree
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, softened (for greasing)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine coconut milk, eggs, passionfruit puree, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Blackberry Basil Cupcakes
Elevate your dessert game with these unique and flavorful cupcakes that combine the sweetness of blackberries with the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a summer gathering or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in blackberries and basil leaves.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pina Colada Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut, perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant yellow color and toasted coconut flakes on top, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Blueberry Lavender Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes bring together the sweetness of blueberries and the subtle charm of lavender, perfect for a unique dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and lavender buds until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these moist and flavorful cupcakes, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices. This classic dessert gets a creative twist in cupcake form!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes
These cupcakes combine the sweetness of raspberries with the brightness of lemon, topped off with a swirly design that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and raspberry puree.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top each cupcake with a dollop of the remaining batter and create a swirly design.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mango Lime Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of ripe mango with the tanginess of lime, perfect for a warm weather treat or a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, mango, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Honeydew Melon Cupcakes
These refreshing cupcakes combine the sweetness of honeydew melon with the warmth of a classic vanilla cake. Perfect for a summer gathering or potluck, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup honeydew melon puree (canned or fresh)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with honeydew melon puree, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peach Bellini Cupcakes
These moist vanilla cupcakes are infused with the sweetness of peaches and topped with a creamy peach bellini buttercream, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup canned peaches in syrup, drained and pureed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Bellini buttercream (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, egg, peach puree, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Bellini Buttercream:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons peach puree
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Frost cooled cupcakes as desired.
Coconut Lime Cupcakes
Moist and flavorful, these coconut lime cupcakes are perfect for a summer treat or a unique dessert to impress your guests. The combination of shredded coconut, lime zest, and a hint of citrus creates a delightful tropical taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Lime zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine coconut flakes, lime juice, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before frosting with your favorite buttercream or whipped cream, and garnish with lime zest.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing summer cupcake recipes! From fruity flavors like strawberry mojito and watermelon frosted, to tropical twists like pineapple coconut and mango lime, there’s something for every taste bud. These delightful treats are perfect for a backyard BBQ or potluck. Try your hand at making lemon blueberry, peach mango, or raspberry lemonade cupcakes, and impress your friends with your baking skills. Whatever the occasion, these sweet summer treats are sure to be a hit!
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