Super Bowl Desserts Mini Cupcake Platter

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Mini Cupcake Platter
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 mini cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate version); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup buttercream frosting; 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting; Sprinkles, crushed cookies, and fresh fruit for decoration

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and this Mini Cupcake Platter has become a staple at my gatherings. Each tiny cupcake is a burst of flavor and fun, perfectly sized for nibbling while enjoying the big game. From classic chocolate to zesty lemon and rich red velvet, there's something for everyone. Transforming ordinary treats into mini masterpieces lets me show off my baking skills without overwhelming myself. Plus, they look fabulous on the table and are great for sharing with family and friends.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:19:08.756Z

During last year's Super Bowl, I decided to make an array of mini cupcakes to cater to all my guests' tastes. It was a tremendous hit, with everyone raving about the variety and flavors. I found that using a mini cupcake pan allowed me to bake multiple flavors at once, making the process efficient while keeping the fun element alive.

One tip that really worked well for me was to include various frostings and toppings, letting everyone customize their cupcakes as they pleased. This simple addition turned my dessert platter into an interactive experience, ensuring there was never a dull moment during the game!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful variety of flavors to please every palate
Perfectly portioned for guilt-free indulgence
Visually stunning and fun to decorate with toppings

      

Choosing Your Flavors

One of the best parts of making a mini cupcake platter is the versatility in flavors. For variety, consider creating a split-batch of batter, dividing it into different bowls. You can add different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to each, or even incorporate fruits like mashed bananas or pureed strawberries for a fruity twist. Just ensure that any additional wet ingredients do not exceed the overall liquid measurement, which can alter the making process.

In addition to the classic chocolate and vanilla, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors such as matcha, coconut, or salted caramel. Using flavored oils can give a rich infusion to the batter. Remember that more intense flavors may require slight adjustments in sugar, so taste as you go while incorporating any new ingredients to ensure balance.

Perfecting Your Frosting Techniques

Frosting can truly elevate your mini cupcakes, so picking the right technique is key. A good buttercream should be smooth and spreadable, not too stiff. If you're finding it challenging to achieve the desired consistency, a splash of milk can help. Alternatively, if it’s too soft, chilling it for a few minutes may help it firm up a bit before applying to your cupcakes.

For a more decorative touch, consider using piping bags with different tips. A star tip can create lovely swirls, while a round tip is excellent for simple dollops. When adding toppings, do so immediately after frosting to ensure they stick well. Fresh fruit should be added right before serving to keep it vibrant and avoid any moisture that can affect the cupcakes' texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!

Cupcake Base

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate version)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Frostings and Toppings

1 cup buttercream frosting
1/2 cup cream cheese frosting
Sprinkles, crushed cookies, and fresh fruit for decoration

Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Let's get started with the cupcake-making process!

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the mini cupcake tray or use mini cupcake liners.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until fully combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each mini cupcake cavity about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Frost and Decorate

Once cooled, frost the mini cupcakes with your choice of frosting and add toppings as desired. Have fun customizing them!

Enjoy your delicious mini cupcakes while cheering for your favorite team!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different flavors and colors for your frostings to create a visually appealing platter that matches your team's colors!

Storage Tips

These mini cupcakes can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver when planning for a Super Bowl party. Once baked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prepare them even earlier, consider freezing the un-frosted cupcakes. They can last in the freezer for up to three months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

When you're ready to serve, allow the cupcakes to thaw at room temperature and frost them just before serving to maintain freshness. Remember that cupcakes with cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated if not consumed within two hours due to dairy content.

Scaling and Customizing

If you're looking to serve a larger crowd, scaling up this recipe is easy. Just multiply each ingredient by the number of batches you want to make. However, be mindful that baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on your cupcakes as the last few minutes of baking approach.

You can also customize this recipe to accommodate various dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid content slightly as needed. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative and a plant-based milk to maintain a similar texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for this recipe.

→ How can I make mini cupcakes ahead of time?

You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving.

→ What are some popular cupcake flavors to include?

Some crowd favorites are chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, and lemon. Mixing flavors makes for a fun platter!

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.