Best Cupcakes of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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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
Mrs. Freshley's Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Cover #TOP 2
Mrs. Freshley's Triple Chocolate Cupcakes
ftb score rating icon 9.8
OMCookie Happy Birthday Cupcakes Basket Cover #TOP 3
OMCookie Happy Birthday Cupcakes Basket
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 | Happy Birthday Cupcakes [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

Mrs. Freshley's Triple Chocolate Cupcakes

Mrs. Freshley's Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Cover
6 ct Hershey's Triple Chocolate Cupcake

Mrs. Freshley's Chocolate Cupcakes offer a delightful treat for chocolate lovers. Each box contains six individually wrapped cupcakes, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking. You can easily toss them in your backpack for a quick bite during busy days or keep them handy for a late-night dessert. These cupcakes are filled with a rich chocolate-flavored cream and coated in a chocolate shell, ensuring every bite is indulgent and satisfying. With real Hershey's cocoa, they provide a sweet way to enhance your snack time, making it a moment to look forward to.

What We Like
Individually wrapped for convenience
Rich chocolate flavor
Perfect for on-the-go snacking
Great for late-night treats
#TOP 3

OMCookie Happy Birthday Cupcakes Basket

Rainbow Birthday
OMCookie Happy Birthday Cupcakes Basket Cover
Happy Birthday Vanilla Cupcakes LARGE Gift Basket Colorful Rainbow Sprinkle | 7 INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED Fresh Cupcakes | Party Food Gift

OMCookie Birthday Cupcakes is a set of 7 large, delicious cupcakes that are perfect for any occasion. Made with white cake and chocolate chips, these cupcakes are individually wrapped, making them safe for school, parties, lunches, or gifts. They are an excellent choice for birthdays, as they make for great party cupcakes or birthday gifts for anyone. These cupcakes are made locally in the USA, are Kosher Pareve, and are made in a nut-free, lactose-free facility. With a mouth-watering taste and a variety of uses, the OMCookie Birthday Cupcakes are a must-have for anyone who loves cupcakes.

What We Like
Individually Wrapped
Safe for School
Great Party Cupcakes
#TOP 4

Red Plate Foods Mini Chocolate Cupcakes

Red Plate Foods
Red Plate Foods Mini Chocolate Cupcakes Cover
RED PLATE FOODS Mini Chocolate Cupcakes 12 Count, 11.8 OZ

The Red Plate Mini Cupcakes are a delightful treat that you can enjoy any time of the day. They are available for pickup or delivery during convenient hours, making it easy for you to satisfy your sweet tooth. These cupcakes are gluten-free, which is great for those with dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to indulge without worry. Additionally, they are Non-GMO certified, ensuring that you are choosing a product made with high-quality ingredients. Whether for a party or a personal snack, these cupcakes offer both taste and peace of mind.

What We Like
Convenient pickup/delivery hours
Gluten-free option
Non-GMO certified
Great for parties
#TOP 5

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 6

Rubicon Bakery Vegan Chocolate Cupcake

Rubicon Bakery
Rubicon Bakery Vegan Chocolate Cupcake Cover
Rubicon Bakery, Cupcake Vegan Chocolate Blackout, 10 Ounce (Pack of 1)

The Rubicon Vegan Chocolate Cupcake offers a delicious treat you can feel good about. Made with high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy this cupcake without worrying about unhealthy additives. The product is crafted without bleached or bromated flours, ensuring a more natural option for your dessert cravings. Additionally, every item from the Whole Foods Market Bakery, including this cupcake, is created with care, so you can indulge without guilt. This cupcake is perfect for anyone looking for a tasty, vegan-friendly dessert that prioritizes better ingredients.

What We Like
High-quality ingredients
Guilt-free indulgence
No bleached flours
Vegan-friendly option
#TOP 7

Generic Strawberry Flavored Cupcakes

Generic
8 Ounce (Pack of 2)
Generic Strawberry Flavored Cupcakes Cover
Generic HOSTESS Limited Edition Strawberry Flavored CupCakes, 8 Count, 12.7 oz 16 in Total (Pack of 2)

Generic Strawberry Cupcakes offer a delightful twist on a classic treat. With a limited edition flavor, you can enjoy the sweet and fruity taste of strawberry in every bite. Each pack contains 8 cupcakes, making it easy to share with friends or enjoy multiple treats yourself. The moist and fluffy texture enhances the overall experience, ensuring a satisfying snack. Plus, with 16 cupcakes in total, you'll always have enough on hand to satisfy your cravings, whether at home, work, or on the go.

What We Like
Exclusive strawberry flavor
Generous serving size
Moist and fluffy texture
Convenient for any occasion
#TOP 8

Vanilla Cupcakes 24-Pack - Carlo's Bakery

Vanilla Cupcakes 24-Pack - Carlo's Bakery Cover
Vanilla Cupcakes - 24x Pack - Carlo's Bakery

Indulge in Carlo's Vanilla Cupcakes, a delightful 24-pack filled with creamy goodness. These cupcakes arrive frozen, ensuring they stay fresh during transit. To enjoy them at their best, simply refrigerate until you're ready to serve. Before indulging, let them sit at room temperature to achieve the perfect softness. This means you can effortlessly delight your guests with a treat that’s ready to enjoy when you are. Just a note: be careful with the dry ice and refrigerate your cupcakes properly for optimal taste!

What We Like
Delicious cream-filled cupcakes
Convenient frozen shipping
Easy to serve after thawing
Perfect for gatherings
#TOP 9

Mrs. Freshley's Reese's Cupcakes

897611-FBA
Mrs. Freshley's Reese's Cupcakes Cover
Mrs. Freshley's Deluxe Reese's Peanut Butter Flavored Cupcakes, 13oz Package

Mrs. Freshley's Reese's Cupcakes offer a delightful treat for snack lovers. Each box contains six rich chocolate cupcakes, filled with creamy Reese's peanut butter goodness. Topped with peanut butter icing and colorful sprinkles, these cupcakes provide a sweet way to elevate your snack time. They are individually wrapped, making them perfect for on-the-go enjoyment, whether you’re packing them in your backpack or reaching for a late-night indulgence. With over 25 years of experience, Mrs. Freshley's knows how to make life a little sweeter.

What We Like
Delicious peanut butter flavor
Individually wrapped for convenience
Perfect for on-the-go snacking
Rich chocolate cupcake base
#TOP 10

Hostess Holiday Cupcakes Bundle

Generic
Hostess Holiday Cupcakes Bundle Cover
Holiday CupCakes, Chocolate Snack Cakes, Festive Sprinkles – 16 count 2 Box Bundle By Hostess

Enjoy the festive flavors of the Hostess Holiday Cupcakes. These limited-edition treats combine delightful cupcakes with delicious chocolate snack cakes, perfect for celebrating the season. You can indulge in the sweet taste of holiday cheer, making them ideal for parties or cozy gatherings. The added festive sprinkles not only enhance the appearance but also add a fun touch to your dessert table. Whether you're treating yourself or sharing with friends, these cupcakes bring joy and convenience to your holiday celebrations.

What We Like
Limited-edition flavors
Perfect for celebrations
Fun festive appearance
Easy to share
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 15,342 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cupcakes list. We found that most customers choose cupcakes with an average price of $18.85.

The cupcakes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cupcakes, including Stern's Bakery, Mrs. Freshley's, OMCookie, Red Plate Foods, Hostess. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 868 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!