Name: Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes to Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Creates lift and lightness; essential for fluffy texture.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Use kosher or table salt for best results.); 0.5 cups Butter (Softened) (Ensure it's at room temperature for easier creaming.); 1 cups Granulated Sugar (Can be swapped with coconut sugar for a different flavor.); 2 large Eggs (Feel free to use flax eggs for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure extract to elevate flavor.); 0.5 cups Milk (Almond or coconut milk can be tasty dairy-free substitutes.); 0.5 cups Mango Purée (Peach or apricot purée works as alternatives.); 3 cups Powdered Sugar (Essential for frosting sweetness and texture.); 0.5 cups Heavy Cream (Substitute with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version.); 0.5 cups Strawberry Jam (Any fruit jam can be used for a different twist.)

With a hint of tropical sunshine and a swirl of color, my kitchen transformed into a paradise when I made these Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes. The vibrant combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and luscious mango purée is a little piece of heaven, all encased in a fluffy, moist cupcake and topped with an eye-catching sunset frosting. Not only do these Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes serve as a delightful dessert centerpiece for gatherings, but they’re also incredibly quick to whip up when you’re in need of a sweet fix. Each cupcake offers a hidden surprise of strawberry jam, making them not just beautiful, but irresistibly fun to eat. Ready to light up your dessert table? Let’s dive into this tropical treat!

Why are these cupcakes a tropical delight?

Tropical Bliss: These Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes blend luscious flavors that transport you to a sunny beach with every bite.

Eye-Catching Swirls: The stunning sunset frosting not only looks beautiful but also adds layers of flavor that guests will rave about.

Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cupcakes in no time, perfect for both casual snacking or elegant gatherings.

All About Surprises: Each cupcake holds a delightful jam center, making them an exciting treat that’ll bring smiles to everyone.

Plus, if you’re looking to elevate your dessert game further, why not try pairing them with a fresh fruit salad or check out my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for another crowd-pleaser?

Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcake Ingredients

• Get ready to create tropical magic!

For the Cupcake Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Creates lift and lightness; it’s essential for that fluffy texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness; use kosher or table salt for best results.
Butter (Softened) – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier creaming.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and enhances texture; can be swapped with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; feel free to use flax eggs for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure extract to elevate your cupcakes.
Milk – Adds moisture and richness; almond or coconut milk makes a tasty dairy-free substitute.
Mango Purée – Offers that tropical flavor everyone loves; peach or apricot purée works as alternatives.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Essential for frosting sweetness and texture; the confectioner’s process is unique, so no direct substitutes.
Heavy Cream – Creates a light and fluffy frosting; substitute with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

For the Filling

Strawberry Jam – Provides a flavorful surprise center; any fruit jam can be used for a different twist.

With the right ingredients ready to go, you’re all set to bake these delightful Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes that will brighten your day!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with vibrant cupcake liners. This ensures your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes have a beautiful base while baking. As the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process for ease and efficiency in your cooking adventure.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This mixture is crucial, as it provides structure and lift to your cupcakes. Keep an eye out for any flour lumps and ensure everything is evenly blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The color should turn pale yellow, indicating that air has been incorporated, setting a great foundation for your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ cup of milk, and ½ cup of mango purée. Mix until everything is combined, but don’t worry about a few lumps; they’re perfectly fine! This step ensures the mixture is moist and flavorful, ready to transform into delightful cupcakes.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or spoon to avoid overmixing. Stop mixing once no flour streaks remain, as this will keep your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes light and fluffy. The batter should be thick yet pourable.

Step 6: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full to allow for rising. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Look for a golden-brown top and slight springiness when gently pressed.

Step 7: Cool and Fill
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, use a small paring knife or cupcake corer to create a hole in the center of each cupcake. Fill each hole with a dollop of strawberry jam, adding a sweet surprise inside!

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened butter and 3 cups of powdered sugar until creamy and well combined. Gradually add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ cup of heavy cream, whipping until fluffy and spreadable. This delightful frosting is what will make your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes truly special!

Step 9: Color Your Frosting
Divide the frosting into three bowls. In one bowl, mix in ¼ cup of mango purée and in another, ¼ cup of strawberry purée, leaving one portion plain. This will create beautiful sunset colors for your frosting. Stir each bowl until the colors are vibrant and well-blended, creating a visual treat for your cupcakes.

Step 10: Pipe the Frosting
Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe the vibrant frosting onto each cupcake in a swirling pattern. Start from the outside and work your way in, layering the mango and strawberry frostings to create a stunning sunset effect. Allow the colors to blend beautifully, resembling a tropical paradise!

Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes by garnishing with slices of fresh fruit or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness. These eye-catching cupcakes are now ready to impress your guests and add a burst of flavor to any gathering. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes?

These delightful cupcakes are bursting with tropical goodness and are sure to steal the show, whether for a casual get-together or a special celebration.

Tropical Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of mango, pineapple, and strawberries adds a refreshing contrast that complements the cupcakes’ sweetness.
Coconut Whipped Cream: The light, airy texture of coconut whipped cream enhances the tropical flavors and adds a luscious touch.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade or fruity iced tea refreshes the palate and balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy, rich ice cream pairs beautifully, providing a delightful contrast to the fruity cupcake flavors.
Key Lime Pie: The tartness of key lime pie amplifies the tropical theme while contrasting with the sweetness, creating a perfect dessert harmony.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats bring an elegant touch to your dessert table, with a hint of indulgence that pairs well with the light cupcakes.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake: For a bit of nostalgia, serve this classic alongside the cupcakes, creating a joyful dessert experience for all.
Pina Colada Smoothie: This creamy, tropical drink adds a fun flair and emphasizes the fruits in your dessert, making it a festive addition.
Mango Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser, mango sorbet resonates beautifully with the flavors of the cupcakes, enhancing the tropical theme.

Storage Tips for Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cupcakes for up to a week, though this may slightly alter their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the cupcakes in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, which will help to restore some of their original softness. Enjoy your tasty Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes!

Make Ahead Options

These Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline dessert prep! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance—just mix and store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. The frosting can also be made ahead; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, allow the frosting to come to room temperature before piping it onto the cooled cupcakes. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the cupcakes with strawberry jam and frost them for beautiful, delicious results that feel fresh and special!

Expert Tips for Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes

Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is softened enough for easy creaming; if it’s too cold, your mixture will be lumpy.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter gently after adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of light, airy Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes.
Filling Technique: Create a small well in each cupcake with a knife before filling with strawberry jam. This prevents overflow during baking and gives a nice surprise center.
Frosting Texture: If your frosting is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of cream to achieve the desired fluffy consistency, ensuring it pipes smoothly onto your cupcakes.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cupcakes in the last few minutes of baking; they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly! Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Cool Completely: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before adding jam and frosting. This ensures the frosting stays fluffy and doesn’t melt into the cupcake.

Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes Variations

Feel free to embrace your creativity and customize these cupcakes to suit your taste preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut butter to accommodate dairy-free diets.
With a few easy swaps, you can still enjoy the tropical flavors without compromising on taste.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat.
This way, those with gluten sensitivities can join in on the delicious fun without a worry!
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter and milk to create a delightful vegan version.
These simple adjustments ensure that everyone can savor the cupcakes, bringing smiles across the table.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of lime or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
This brightens the taste profile and complements the mango and strawberry beautifully!
Jam Varieties: Swap out strawberry jam for raspberry or apricot jam for a unique surprise center.
Each fruit brings its own twist, tantalizing the taste buds with different fruity notes.
Frosting Variations: Try using a cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
This twist offers an incredible depth of flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over your frosting for a decadent touch.
It not only enhances flavor but adds a visually appealing element for a grand presentation.
Mini Cupcakes: Make mini versions of these cupcakes for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.
The smaller portions make it easy to indulge without feeling guilty, and they’re cute too!

And if you’re looking for more sweet indulgences, don’t miss my delightful Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake that’s sure to wow your guests!

Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

What ripeness should the mangoes be for the purée?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. Look for mangoes with a vibrant skin color and avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this indicates overripeness. If your mangoes aren’t quite ripe, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of days until they soften.

How should I store the Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes?
It’s important to keep your cupcakes fresh! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve them for longer, refrigerate the cupcakes for up to a week. Just remember, refrigeration may slightly change their texture, making them a bit denser.

Can I freeze leftover cupcakes?
Very much! To freeze your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes, first ensure they are completely cooled. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be as good as fresh!

What should I do if my jam overflowed during baking?
Oops! If your jam overflowed, it’s likely that the hole wasn’t deep enough. Next time, create a slightly larger well in the center of each cupcake for the jam to sit without spilling over. If you find yourself with an overflow situation, simply clean it up with a knife and enjoy the delicious jam topping that did remain!

Are there any dietary concerns associated with these cupcakes?
Definitely worth considering! While the Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes are vegetarian, they do contain eggs and dairy. For a vegan option, you can easily substitute flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use almond or coconut milk instead of cow’s milk. Additionally, check the ingredients in your jam to ensure they fit your dietary needs. Happy baking, everyone!

How long can I keep the frosting in the fridge?
I often make my frosting ahead of time! You can store the prepared frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, bring it to room temperature and beat it again for a minute or two to restore its fluffy texture. Enjoy decorating your Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcakes with ease!