Best Cupcakes of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Cupcakes are a beloved dessert that have become a staple in bakeries and homes across the world. These small, individual cakes are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to weddings. With a variety of flavors and toppings, cupcakes can be customized to fit anyone's taste preferences. From classic vanilla and chocolate to unique flavors like red velvet and salted caramel, there is a cupcake for every sweet tooth. Whether you're looking to indulge in a decadent treat or surprise a loved one with a special dessert, cupcakes are the perfect choice.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Happy Birthday Cupcakes by Stern's Bakery Cover #TOP 1
Happy Birthday Cupcakes by Stern's Bakery
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Hostess Chocolate CupCakes Cover #TOP 2
Hostess Chocolate CupCakes
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Betty Crocker Cupcake Decorating Kit for Girls Cover #TOP 3
Betty Crocker Cupcake Decorating Kit for Girls
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Cupcakes

#TOP 1

Happy Birthday Cupcakes by Stern's Bakery

Happy Birthday Cupcakes by Stern's Bakery Cover
Birthday Gift Basket | Cupcakes Bakery Fresh [9 Count] | Mini Rainbow Sprinkle Cupcakes Individually Wrapped | Birthday Treats for Kids, Men, Women| Kosher, Nut Free | Stern’s Bakery

Celebrate special moments with Stern's Birthday Cupcakes, a delightful box of 9 mini sprinkle cupcakes. Each cupcake is hand-dipped in rich chocolate icing and topped with colorful rainbow sprinkles, making them perfect for any birthday party. Individually wrapped for freshness, these treats arrive safely at your doorstep, ready to impress your loved ones. Plus, they are certified Kosher and nut-free, ensuring that everyone can enjoy them without worry. Add a personal touch with a gift note at checkout to make their day even more memorable!

What We Like
Individually wrapped for freshness
Kosher and nut-free
Perfect for all ages
Hand-dipped in chocolate
#TOP 2

Hostess Chocolate CupCakes

Hostess Chocolate CupCakes Cover
Hostess Chocolate CupCakes Single Serve, 2 count, 3.17 oz

Indulge in a pack of two chocolate cupcakes made by HOSTESS - Creator of America's favorite baked goods. Each package is sealed to maintain freshness. These cupcakes are made of chocolate cake with chocolate icing and a creamy center. They're perfect for a quick snack to satisfy your cravings and pair well with your favorite drink.

What We Like
Sealed for freshness
Quick snack on-the-go
Great for satisfying cravings
#TOP 3

Betty Crocker Cupcake Decorating Kit for Girls

Pink
Standard
Betty Crocker Cupcake Decorating Kit for Girls Cover
Betty Crocker Cupcake Kit For Girls- Includes 100 ct Betty Crocker pink cupcake liners, Fusion Unicorn Mix Sprinkles, and Decorating Pink Icing - Perfect for gender reveals, baby showers, & birthdays

The Betty Crocker Cupcake Kit is a complete set that helps you create delightful cupcakes easily. It includes 100 pink cupcake liners that are grease-resistant and keep your cupcakes looking neat and pretty. You'll also get colorful Fusion Unicorn Mix sprinkles to add fun and vibrant decoration to your treats. The kit features a pink decorating icing that’s simple to squeeze, making it easy for you to create beautiful swirls, borders, or write sweet messages on your cupcakes. This kit is perfect for making your celebrations like birthdays, baby showers, or gender reveals extra special and hassle-free.

What We Like
Complete decorating set
100 grease-resistant liners
Colorful unicorn sprinkles
Easy-to-use pink icing
#TOP 4

Hostess Cupcakes

8 Ounce (Pack of 6)
Hostess Cupcakes Cover
Hostess Cupcakes, Golden, 8 Count (Pack of 6)

Indulge in the delicious Hostess Golden Cupcakes, a pack of 8 individually sealed treats that guarantee freshness. These moist golden cakes feature a creamy center that adds an extra layer of decadence. Whether you want to enjoy a few moments alone or share them with your family, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. Pair them with your favorite drink for a delightful combination. The flavorful Hostess Cupcakes are sure to brighten up your day. Made by Hostess, the creator of America's favorite baked goods, these cupcakes are a delightful treat that you won't want to miss.

What We Like
Freshness guaranteed
Moist and creamy
Perfect for any occasion
#TOP 5

Joeabor 6 Pack Artificial Cupcakes

UB6006
Multi Color
Joeabor 6 Pack Artificial Cupcakes Cover
Joeabor 6 Pack Fake Cupcakes, Artificial Cupcakes for Display, Faux Cake Décor, Realistic Fake Artificial Food for Display, Fake Desserts Pastries for Decoration

The Joeabor Fake Cupcakes Set offers a pack of six colorful, realistic-looking faux cupcakes that add charm to any space. Each cupcake is topped with vibrant plastic fruits, making them perfect for brightening up your home, café, or event. The soft feel and true-to-life design make these cupcakes visually appealing, so you can create attractive displays without the mess of real desserts. Made from durable foam, these decorations are safe to handle and won’t spoil, giving you a long-lasting option for decorating. Whether for business or personal use, this set brings convenience and lasting beauty to your décor.

What We Like
Realistic design and colors
Durable foam material
Includes six cupcakes
Versatile decoration use
#TOP 6

Tastykake Jelly Krimpets 2-Pack

Tastykake Jelly Krimpets 2-Pack Cover
Tastykake Jelly Krimpets - 2 Pack

The Tastykake Jelly Krimpets offer a convenient treat with two boxes included, making it easy for you to enjoy or share. These cupcakes come from the trusted Tastykake brand, known for delivering tasty and satisfying snacks. Having two boxes means you can keep some for yourself and still have some to share with friends or family, making it perfect for gatherings or quick indulgences. These jelly-filled cupcakes provide a sweet and enjoyable snack option that fits well in your busy lifestyle or as a delightful dessert.

What We Like
Two boxes included
Trusted Tastykake brand
Jelly-filled cupcakes
Great for sharing
#TOP 7

Baked by Melissa OMGF Gluten Free Cupcakes 25 Count

Baked by Melissa
Baked by Melissa OMGF Gluten Free Cupcakes 25 Count Cover
Baked by Melissa Cupcakes, OMGF Oh My Gluten Free Cupcakes, Assorted Bite-Size Wheatless Cupcakes (25 Count)

The Baked by Melissa Gluten Free Cupcakes offer you 25 delicious bite-size treats that are perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. With six unique flavors like Cookies & Cream and Red Velvet, you get a variety that can satisfy different tastes at parties or as gifts. These cupcakes arrive fresh, so you can enjoy them right away without worrying about staleness. Plus, they are kosher, making them suitable for a range of dietary needs. Whether you want a tasty snack or a thoughtful present, these cupcakes provide convenience and flavor in every bite.

What We Like
Gluten free
Variety of flavors
Fresh delivery guaranteed
Kosher certified
Perfect for gifts
#TOP 8

YUEYUQIU Handmade Crochet Grandma Birthday Cupcake

Pink
YUEYUQIU Handmade Crochet Grandma Birthday Cupcake Cover
YUEYUQIU Grandma Birthday Gifts from Granddaughter Grandson, Handmade Crochet Cupcake, Funny Happy Bday Presents for Her, Best Grandma Ever Gift, Sentimental Nana Christmas Party Decor

The YUEYUQIU Grandma Crochet Cupcake is a charming and unique gift perfect for celebrating your grandma’s birthday. This hand-crocheted cupcake offers a fun and heartfelt message that lets your grandma know she’s the best, making her feel truly special. As a one-of-a-kind handmade item, it serves as a lasting keepsake rather than a regular cake, adding a sweet touch to her kitchen decor. Beyond being a gift, it doubles as a fun centerpiece for birthday parties, sparking smiles and conversations among family members. This thoughtful present combines humor, love, and artistry to make your grandma’s day unforgettable.

What We Like
Handmade unique design
Heartfelt birthday message
Lasting keepsake decor
Fun party centerpiece
#TOP 9

Little Debbie Chocolate Cupcakes, 96 Count

Little Debbie Chocolate Cupcakes, 96 Count Cover
Little Debbie Chocolate Cupcakes, 96 Chocolate Cupcakes Filled with Creme (12 Boxes)

Indulge your sweet tooth with Little Debbie Chocolate Cupcakes. This pack includes 12 boxes of 72 individually wrapped chocolate cupcakes filled with delicate light creme center. The moist chocolate cake is subtly topped with a smooth fudge icing and a decorative swirl. Little Debbie Chocolate Cupcakes are an enjoyable guilty pleasure that is easy to understand!

What We Like
Delicious moist chocolate cake
Individually wrapped for convenience
Smooth fudge icing and decorative swirl
#TOP 10

Joeabor Decorative Fake Cupcakes 6-Pack

UB6008
Cupcakes a
2.75 x 2.8 inches
Joeabor Decorative Fake Cupcakes 6-Pack Cover
Joeabor Fake Cupcakes, Artificial Cupcakes for Display, Realistic Fake Food, Artificial Cake Fake Desserts Pastries for Decoration, Decorative Faux Cakes Set A 6 Pack

The Joeabor Fake Cupcakes offer a set of six lifelike faux cupcakes along with four small plastic strawberries, perfect for adding a pop of color and charm to your home, café, or event space. These versatile pastries work well not only as decor for your personal or business settings but also as eye-catching props for parties and photo shoots. Thanks to their realistic design and vibrant colors, these cupcakes look convincingly delicious and add a fun, squishy appeal. Made from durable foam and paper, they are safe to handle and won’t spoil, allowing you to enjoy their decorative charm for a long time.

What We Like
Realistic design
Versatile use
Durable materials
Colorful appearance
Includes plastic strawberries
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Choosing the Right Cupcakes

Introduction

Cupcakes may seem like a simple dessert, but there are actually a few things to consider when choosing the perfect one. From flavor to frosting, there are a multitude of options to choose from, and making the right choice can make all the difference in your dessert experience. In this article, we will provide some tips for selecting the perfect cupcake for any occasion.

Consider the flavor

When choosing a cupcake, the first thing to consider is the flavor. Do you prefer a classic vanilla cupcake with chocolate frosting, or do you like to try more adventurous flavors like lemon poppyseed or red velvet? There are endless flavor combinations to choose from, so take some time to think about what you like. If you're unsure, many bakeries offer a variety of flavors for you to try, so don't be afraid to sample a few before making your decision.

Pay attention to the frosting

The frosting on a cupcake can make or break the dessert, so it's important to choose wisely. Buttercream frosting is a classic choice that pairs well with many different flavors, but there are also other options like cream cheese frosting or fondant. If you're not a fan of frosting, you can even opt for a naked cupcake without any frosting at all. Just be sure to choose a frosting that complements the flavor of your cupcake.

Think about presentation

When it comes to cupcakes, presentation is everything. If you're serving the cupcakes at a party or event, you'll want to choose cupcakes that are visually appealing. Look for cupcakes with colorful frosting, sprinkles, or other decorative toppings that will make them stand out. You can even get creative and add your own personal touch to the cupcakes by adding your own decorations.

Consider the size

Cupcakes come in a variety of sizes, from bite-sized mini cupcakes to larger cupcakes that are perfect for sharing. When choosing cupcakes, think about how many people you'll be serving and what size will be most appropriate. Mini cupcakes are great for individual servings, while larger cupcakes are better for sharing.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing cupcakes, the options are endless. Whether you're a fan of classic flavors or more adventurous ones, there's a cupcake out there for everyone. By considering the flavor, frosting, presentation, and size, you can choose the perfect cupcake for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What's the difference between baking cakes and cupcakes?

The main difference between baking cakes and cupcakes is the size and baking time. Cupcakes take around 15 - 20 minutes to bake, while cakes usually take 30 - 40 minutes. The baking time can vary depending on the size of the cake or cupcake.

2. What types of cupcakes are there?

There are various types of cupcakes to choose from, including Strawberry Shortcake, Lemon, Ultimate Nutella, Chocolate with Peanut Butter Frosting, Coconut, Oreo, Ultimate Salted Caramel, and Red Velvet cupcakes. These are just a few examples, and there are many more flavors and combinations to explore.

3. What is the toothpick trick for cupcakes?

The toothpick trick is a method to check if cupcakes are fully baked. Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake, and if it comes out clean, it means the crumb is fully set, and there is no excess moisture remaining. This ensures that the cupcakes will be properly baked and hold together when cooled.

4. Is it better to make cupcakes with oil or butter?

Using oil in cupcakes can result in a more tender crumb. Oil coats flour proteins, reducing gluten formation and keeping the cupcakes moist. Butter, on the other hand, adds flavor but can make the cupcakes denser. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired texture of the cupcakes.

5. Is it better to make cupcakes with water or milk?

Substituting water with milk, whether whole milk or non-dairy alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk, can enhance the flavor and density of cupcakes. Milk adds fat, which contributes to a richer taste and texture in the finished cupcakes.

6. Are muffins just cupcakes without frosting?

While muffins and cupcakes share some similarities, there are distinct differences. Cupcakes typically have more sugar and fat, including ingredients like butter, oil, or dairy. They are also often topped with frosting. Muffins, on the other hand, have a different mixing method and are typically less sweet and less rich, making them suitable for breakfast or a snack.

Editor's Notes

During our cupcake research, we found 24 cupcake products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,270 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cupcakes list. We found that most customers choose cupcakes with an average price of $18.03.

The cupcakes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cupcakes, including Stern's Bakery, Hostess, Betty Crocker, Joeabor, Tastykake. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 755 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!