Go Back

Party Piñata Cupcakes Recipe

These Party Piñata Cupcakes are soft vanilla cupcakes filled with colorful candies and topped with smooth buttercream. A simple, joyful treat with a fun surprise inside.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling + Assembly Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

For the Filling:

  • 3/4 cup mini candies M&Ms, mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or similar

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 –3 tbsp milk
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
  • Alternately mix in the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.
  • Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cupcakes cool completely. Then, using a small knife or cupcake corer, cut out a 1-inch hole in the center of each cupcake.
  • Fill each center with about 1 tablespoon of mini candies.
  • Replace the cut-out piece on top to cover the filling.
  • Make the frosting: Beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla, salt, and milk until desired consistency.
  • Frost cupcakes and decorate with sprinkles or additional candy as desired.

Notes

  • Use a piping bag for cleaner frosting swirls.
  • Don’t overfill the center—about 1 tablespoon of candy is enough.
  • You can prepare cupcakes and frosting a day ahead and assemble just before serving.